Gayathri Kallukaran is a Junior Journalist with Eastern Eye. She has a Master’s degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from St. Paul’s College, Bengaluru, and brings over five years of experience in content creation, including two years in digital journalism. She covers stories across culture, lifestyle, travel, health, and technology, with a creative yet fact-driven approach to reporting. Known for her sensitivity towards human interest narratives, Gayathri’s storytelling often aims to inform, inspire, and empower. Her journey began as a layout designer and reporter for her college’s daily newsletter, where she also contributed short films and editorial features. Since then, she has worked with platforms like FWD Media, Pepper Content, and Petrons.com, where several of her interviews and features have gained spotlight recognition. Fluent in English, Malayalam, Tamil, and Hindi, she writes in English and Malayalam, continuing to explore inclusive, people-focused storytelling in the digital space.
Vegetable lasagnes sold in Iceland supermarkets are being urgently recalled over concerns they may contain hard pieces of plastic, which could pose a risk to consumers. The recall applies to 400g packs of the lasagne with best-before dates of 23 July 2026 and 30 July 2026. Shoppers who purchased these specific products are being advised not to eat them and to return them to the store for a full refund.
Food Standards Agency issues warning
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) has issued a precautionary recall notice, alerting customers to the potential hazard posed by the contaminated lasagnes. The agency explained that the product might contain hard plastic, making it unsafe for consumption. The FSA emphasised that only the products with the specified best-before dates are affected by the recall.
In the notice, the FSA stated, “We are taking the precautionary measure of recalling the date codes of the above product because it may contain hard pieces of plastic, making it unsafe to eat.” The notice clarified that only the best-before-date codes listed are involved in the recall.
The FSA has urged customers to check if they have bought the affected lasagne and return it to the store from which it was purchased. Iceland is offering a full refund, and no receipt is required. To assist customers in identifying the product, the FSA suggested taking a photo of the recall notice or writing down the relevant product details before returning it.
Plastic contamination risks
Plastic is frequently used in the packaging of ready meals, but when hard plastic finds its way into food, especially when heated, it can pose significant health risks. Consuming fragments of hard plastic can lead to physical injuries, such as choking or internal damage. This recall is a preventive measure to ensure that no one is harmed by consuming the affected products.
Iceland’s response to the recall
Iceland, a leading high-street supermarket chain in the UK, has taken swift action in response to the recall. The company has made it clear that customer safety is its top priority, urging anyone who has purchased the affected vegetable lasagne to return it to their nearest Iceland store. A full refund will be provided without requiring a receipt, simplifying the process for customers.
The recall highlights the ongoing commitment of retailers and food safety authorities like the FSA to uphold stringent safety standards. By responding quickly and efficiently to potential food hazards, Iceland demonstrates its dedication to ensuring the well-being of its customers.
Simple return process for customers
Customers who have purchased the affected lasagnes are encouraged to return them directly to the Iceland store where they were bought. The return process has been made straightforward, with no receipt needed to receive a full refund. This ensures that the recall is as accessible as possible for all customers.
In food recalls of this nature, consumers are usually advised not to dispose of the product at home but to return it to the retailer. This not only ensures proper handling of the affected items but also allows the retailer to track the recall more effectively.
Mention of cat food recall
In a related case, Savage Cat, a pet food brand in the US, recently issued a recall for its raw chicken cat food due to potential bird flu contamination. While this case involves a different type of product, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing vigilance required by food safety authorities worldwide to protect both consumers and pets.
The importance of food safety
Food recalls like this one are a vital aspect of maintaining public health and safety. They ensure that products deemed unsafe are quickly removed from store shelves and from consumers’ homes. The cooperation of consumers in identifying and returning potentially dangerous items is crucial in helping retailers and regulators mitigate any risks.
The recall of Iceland’s vegetable lasagne serves as a reminder to stay informed about food safety alerts and to act promptly if a product you have purchased is found to be unsafe. Food safety regulations and recall measures exist to protect the public, and swift action by retailers and consumers alike can help prevent harm.
For now, anyone with a potentially affected vegetable lasagne is urged to check their freezer and return the product to Iceland for a full refund. This proactive step ensures that consumer safety remains a top priority in the food industry.
52-year-old man dies after eating contaminated broccoli and sausage sandwich.
Nine others hospitalised, including family members and other customers.
Authorities recall broccoli nationwide; food truck and produce seized.
Botulism suspected; investigation underway.
A man has died and nine others have been hospitalised in Italy following a suspected botulism outbreak linked to contaminated broccoli. Health authorities have ordered a nationwide recall of broccoli after several people fell ill, all traced to the same street food vendor in southern Italy.
Man’s death linked to contaminated street food
The victim, identified as 52-year-old artist and musician Luigi Di Sarno from Cercola, Naples, became unwell while driving home from a holiday in Calabria. He had stopped with his family in Diamante, Cosenza province, where they bought broccoli and sausage sandwiches from a food truck.
All five members of his group consumed the same meal and later developed symptoms consistent with botulism. Mr Di Sarno’s condition deteriorated rapidly while travelling near Lagonegro in Potenza, forcing him to pull over. Emergency services attended, but he died before reaching hospital.
Hospitalisations and investigation
Two women in their 40s, two 17-year-olds and other customers who had eaten from the same vendor were admitted to hospitals in Cosenza. Two patients were initially reported to be in a serious condition and required intensive care.
Local prosecutors in Paola have seized all jars of broccoli in oil from the vendor, along with the food truck, as part of an ongoing investigation into how the toxin may have been introduced.
Botulism concerns
Botulism is caused by toxins produced by Clostridium botulinum bacteria and can be fatal in around 10 per cent of cases. The illness attacks the nervous system, leading to muscle paralysis and breathing difficulties. While rare, it is often linked to improperly processed foods, such as vegetables preserved in oil.
The Calabria Region’s Department of Health confirmed emergency protocols had been activated, with the national Poison Control Centre in Pavia coordinating treatment. Only the Ministry of Health is authorised to store and distribute the botulism antitoxin in Italy.
Previous botulism outbreak in Italy
The incident follows a separate outbreak last month in Sardinia, where eight people were hospitalised after eating guacamole contaminated with botulinum toxin at a food festival.
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McDonald’s credited the sales rebound to “standout marketing”
McDonald’s launches its largest-ever marketing campaign, centred on “A Minecraft Movie” meal.
US same-store sales rise 2.5% in Q2, ending a two-quarter decline.
Global same-store sales increase 3.8%, with revenue up 5% to $6.8 billion.
Campaign includes kids’ Happy Meal, adult meal, and crispy chicken strips.
CEO flags concern over declining visits from low-income consumers.
New nostalgic “McDonaldland” meal and revamped drinks to launch next.
McDonald’s has reported a return to sales growth in the second quarter of 2025, driven by the success of what it called the largest marketing campaign in the company’s history — a global promotion tied to A Minecraft Movie. The campaign featured themed kids’ Happy Meals, an adult meal offering, and a major merchandise push across 100 markets.
Same-store sales in the United States rose by 2.5% for the three months ending 30 June, reversing two consecutive quarters of decline. Global sales at comparable locations increased 3.8%, while total revenue rose 5% year-on-year to reach $6.8 billion.
McDonald’s credited the sales rebound to “standout marketing,” particularly the Minecraft tie-in and the launch of new crispy chicken strips.
Minecraft Movie meal attracts customers worldwide
Launched in late March, the Minecraft-themed promotion was timed with the theatrical release of A Minecraft Movie, which was distributed by Warner Bros. Pictures and went on to gross nearly $1 billion globally. The campaign included a Happy Meal with themed toys for children and a special adult meal — a move aimed at attracting both family and nostalgic audiences.
The promotion rolled out in 100 international markets, significantly boosting traffic and interest in McDonald’s offerings during the quarter.
Pricing challenges and low-income consumer pullback
Despite the successful campaign, McDonald’s CEO Chris Kempczinski noted ongoing challenges, particularly among low-income consumers, whose visits dropped by double digits compared to the same period last year. That demographic, he said, continues to pull back on spending, even as middle-income customer visits show improvement.
Kempczinski emphasised the importance of re-engaging lower-income consumers, who typically visit McDonald’s more frequently than others. To that end, the company has extended the $2.99 Snack Wrap promotion through the end of 2025 and is continuing to focus on value-oriented menu strategies.
He admitted that “consumers’ value perceptions are most influenced by our core menu pricing,” pointing to a rising concern that combination meals often cost more than $10 — a price point that may be contributing to negative perceptions about value.
McDonald’s is currently in talks with US franchisees to explore pricing solutions, though no specific changes were announced.
Nostalgia and new drinks
Following the success of the Minecraft promotion, McDonald’s plans to maintain marketing momentum. Next week, it will debut a new “McDonaldland” meal aimed at nostalgic adults, featuring a mystery-flavoured shake. The company will also roll out a revamped drink menu in 500 US locations under its CosMc’s branding in September, following the closure of its short-lived spinoff.
McDonald’s shares opened nearly 3% higher on the back of the results announcement.
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Customers advised to return item for a full refund
Aldi recalls 750g packs of Urban Eats Japanese Style Vegetable Gyoza
Risk of illness or injury due to potential glass contamination
Affected product has a best-before date of 27 March 2027
Sold in stores across six Australian states and territories
Customers advised to return item for a full refund
Aldi issues urgent recall over frozen gyoza product
Aldi has announced the recall of a popular frozen food item amid fears it may contain glass. The affected product is the 750g pack of Urban Eats Japanese Style Vegetable Gyoza, with a best-before date of 27 March 2027.
The potential presence of glass poses a risk of illness or injury if consumed.
Product sold across multiple regions
The recalled item was sold in Aldi stores across New South Wales, the Australian Capital Territory, Victoria, Queensland, South Australia, and Western Australia.
Customers who have purchased the product are strongly advised not to consume it and to return it to any Aldi store for a full refund. Proof of purchase is not required.
Customers who have purchased the product are strongly advised not to consume itAldi
Health and safety advice
Anyone concerned about their health after consuming the product should seek medical advice.
Further information is available via the Aldi Stores Food Recall Hotline on 1800 709 993.
The supermarket has apologised for the inconvenience and reiterated its commitment to product safety.
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One of the UK’s most beloved restaurant groups, Dishoom
Dishoom opens its first Glasgow location on Friday 29 August
New café located in a Grade A listed building on Nelson Mandela Place
Signature dishes like Bacon Naan Rolls and House Black Daal to feature on the menu
Continues ‘Meal for a Meal’ initiative, donating a meal to a child in need for every one served
Follows successful launches in London, Edinburgh, Manchester, and Birmingham
One of the UK’s most beloved restaurant groups, Dishoom, will officially open its first Glasgow café on Friday 29 August. The new site, located on Nelson Mandela Place in the city centre, marks a major milestone for the brand as it expands further into Scotland.
Taking over a 7,000 sq ft Grade A listed building that formerly housed Glasgow’s stock exchange, the new Dishoom will blend the spirit of Bombay’s old Irani cafés with the energy of Glasgow’s South Asian community.
Rooted in story and tradition
Every Dishoom location draws inspiration from a specific narrative rooted in Bombay’s culture. For Glasgow, the story is centred on a fictional former agent, Miss X, who returns to civilian life to run a lively Irani café at the base of the stock exchange building.
This storytelling element informs the restaurant’s design, with interiors and atmosphere shaped by the imagined world of Miss X.
A menu of much-loved classics
The Glasgow café will be open from morning to late evening, serving a menu of signature favourites that have earned Dishoom national acclaim. Diners can expect classics such as the Bacon Naan Roll, House Black Daal, Chicken Ruby and Jackfruit Biryani, alongside drinks like chai and house sodas.
The restaurant will accept reservations for breakfast and lunch, as well as for dinner groups of six or more. Walk-ins will be welcomed throughout the day.
Dining with purpose: Meal for a Meal
Every Dishoom location draws inspiration from a specific narrative rooted in Bombay’s cultureHaarala Hamilton
Dishoom’s commitment to social impact continues with its ‘Meal for a Meal’ initiative. For every meal served in Glasgow, the restaurant will donate a meal to a child in need. This is delivered in partnership with Magic Breakfast in the UK and The Akshaya Patra Foundation in India.
To date, more than 20 million meals have been donated through this initiative across Dishoom’s other locations in London, Edinburgh, Birmingham and Manchester.
A long-held ambition realised
Executive Chef Arun Tilak, who joined Dishoom in 2012 and helped launch its Covent Garden kitchen, said the Glasgow launch fulfils a long-standing dream.
“Bringing Dishoom to Glasgow has long been a dream of ours. The team has worked hard to create a space and a menu that feels authentic to Bombay while celebrating the character of Glasgow and the heritage of its South Asian community.
“Every Dishoom tells a Bombay story which comes to life when people sit, eat and share together. That sense of warmth and welcome is at the heart of what we do, and we’re so looking forward to seeing it in Glasgow.”
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Cadbury is set to introduce two new additions to its Bournville range in late July
Cadbury to release two new Bournville chocolate bars this July
Flavours: Salted Caramel and Chopped Hazelnut
Recommended retail price: £2.20
Set to be available nationwide, starting with Sainsbury’s
Launch follows earlier new flavour announcements from Cadbury
New Bournville flavours arriving in stores this month
Cadbury is set to introduce two new additions to its Bournville range in late July: Bournville Salted Caramel and Bournville Chopped Hazelnut.
The dark chocolate bars will be available at supermarkets across the UK with a recommended retail price of £2.20. While both bars are already listed on Sainsbury’s website, they are not yet available for order.
Cadbury's parent company, Mondelez International, confirmed that the new bars will be permanent additions to the Bournville lineup. The company said it expects the products to be stocked by multiple retailers nationwide.
Part of Cadbury’s wider 2024 launch activity
The new Bournville flavours follow several recent product launches from Cadbury. In May, the brand released a Dairy Milk Iced Latte bar, which featured a coffee-flavoured filling and biscuit pieces wrapped in classic Dairy Milk chocolate.
Cadbury also launched limited-edition Dairy Milk summer bars earlier this year, which included temperature-sensitive packaging that changed colour depending on the surrounding heat.
Another recent release — the Twirl White Dipped — has attracted strong customer feedback, with many praising the bar's white chocolate coating as a fresh twist on the traditional Twirl.
Recent changes to the Bournville range
Despite the new product launches, Cadbury recently discontinued its Bournville Fingers. The dark chocolate-coated biscuits, introduced in October 2020, were withdrawn from shelves in June 2024, ending a short but popular run.
The Bournville range continues to focus on dark chocolate offerings, and the introduction of Salted Caramel and Chopped Hazelnut is seen as an effort to expand its appeal with new flavour profiles.