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.
McDonald’s has confirmed its updated menu for May 2025, bringing a selection of new and returning food and drink items to its restaurants across the UK. The revised offering includes sweet treats, savoury snacks, and limited-edition beverages, available nationwide from Wednesday, 7 May.
New and returning beverages
For fans of the popular biscuit, Lotus Biscoff, McDonald’s is bringing back two indulgent drinksMcDonald’s
One of the standout newcomers this May is the Frozen Cherry Lemonade, priced at £2.99. This tangy, chilled drink blends traditional frozen lemonade with a cherry-flavoured swirl, ideal for warmer weather.
For fans of the popular biscuit, Lotus Biscoff, McDonald’s is bringing back two indulgent drinks: the Biscoff McFlurry and the Biscoff Frappe.
The Biscoff McFlurry features crumbled Lotus Biscoff biscuit swirled into McDonald’s signature soft serve. It is priced at £2.29 for a regular size and £1.69 for the mini version.
The Biscoff Frappe, costing £3.09, combines a vanilla-flavoured base with ice and Biscoff crumbs, topped with caramel-flavoured cream and a sprinkling of Biscoff biscuit.
Main meals and burgers
McDonald’s is introducing a new Frank’s RedHot Mayo DipMcDonald’s
Making a comeback to the menu is the Steakhouse Stack, a hearty burger featuring two 100% British and Irish beef patties, cheddar cheese, crispy onions, red onions, and fresh lettuce. It is finished with a black peppercorn sauce and served in a glazed sesame bun. The burger is available on its own for £5.99.
Also returning is the McSpicy X Frank’s RedHot Burger. This spicy option includes a chicken breast fillet coated in a crispy, hot seasoning, along with lettuce, cheese made with Emmental, jalapeños, slivered onions, and Frank’s RedHot Mayo, all inside a sesame seed bun.
The burger alone is priced at £5.99, while a medium meal version is available for £7.99.
Additionally, McDonald’s is introducing a new Frank’s RedHot Mayo Dip, described as creamy, tangy, and fiery. This standalone dip can be added to any meal for an extra 50p.
Wraps and vegetarian options
The Katsu Chicken One wrap will remain available throughout May. Customers can choose between crispy or grilled chicken, paired with katsu curry sauce, crispy onions, cucumber, and lettuce, wrapped in a warm toasted tortilla.
This wrap is priced at £3.49, with a promotional discount available on Wednesdays, reducing the price to £1.99.
Sides and snacks
Another item remaining on the menu is the Cheesy Garlic Bread Dippers. These consist of mozzarella cheese infused with garlic and chives, coated in ciabatta-style breadcrumbs, and served with a tomato dip.
A portion of four dippers is priced at £2.49.
For larger groups, a sharebox version is available for £6.59.
Availability and timeframe
All items from the May menu will be available for a limited time only, beginning on Wednesday, 7 May. McDonald’s advises customers to try the new and returning items before they are rotated out as part of the regular seasonal menu changes.
This May refresh continues McDonald’s tradition of introducing themed and seasonal items to complement its core menu, with a mix of nostalgic favourites and bold new flavours aimed at catering to a wide variety of tastes.
Martin Dickie has announced his departure from BrewDog and the alcohol industry.
He co-founded the Ellon-based brewer with James Watt in 2007.
Dickie cited family time and personal reasons for his exit.
His departure follows recent bar closures as part of a company restructuring.
BrewDog confirmed no further leadership changes will follow.
BrewDog co-founder Martin Dickie has announced he is leaving the Scottish brewer and the wider alcohol industry for “personal reasons.” Dickie, who founded the Ellon-based business with James Watt in 2007, said he wanted to spend more time with his family after more than two decades in brewing and distilling.
Early beginnings
Dickie and Watt launched BrewDog at the age of 24, starting from a garage in Fraserburgh and selling hand-filled bottles from a van at local markets. The company grew rapidly to become one of the UK’s best-known craft brewers.
Leadership changes
James Watt stepped down as chief executive last year after 17 years in the role, moving into a non-executive position as “captain and co-founder.” Dickie’s exit marks another major shift in the company’s founding leadership.
Dickie’s statement
“Leaving BrewDog isn’t easy, but I’m ready to spend less time travelling and spend some more time at home with my young family,” Dickie said. He added: “It has been an honour to have worked with incredible, like-minded colleagues who live in a world of flavour and experimentation. In James Taylor and Lauren Carrol, BrewDog is in very strong hands and I will always remain a massive fan.”
Company response
BrewDog chief executive James Taylor praised Dickie’s contribution, highlighting his focus on product quality, workplace safety, sustainable supplier relationships, and new product development. “Martin’s contributions to BrewDog have been immeasurable,” Taylor said. “His creativity, passion, and relentless drive have shaped our company over the years and inspired countless others in the industry.”
Recent challenges
The announcement comes a month after BrewDog closed ten of its bars, including its flagship Aberdeen Gallowgate site and a Dundee outlet, citing commercial unviability. The company stressed that Dickie’s departure will not result in further leadership changes.
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The incident follows a separate outbreak last month in Sardinia
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.”