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This new food delivery service is trying to take on DoorDash and Uber Eats by offering no menu markups

20 October 2026 at 17:56
Person walking on a sunlit sidewalk carrying a brown paper takeout bag beside a wall casting a long shadow.
Restaurant software company Olo is launching a delivery app.

Bloomberg/Getty Images

  • Restaurant software provider Olo is launching a delivery app.
  • Olo will offer the same menu prices for delivery that in-person visitors get, it said.
  • Other delivery services often mark up order prices.

A new food delivery service is taking aim at menu mark-ups — and some entrenched rivals

Restaurant ordering software company Olo is launching its own customer-focused app, it said on Tuesday. The app puts it in competition with more established delivery companies, such as DoorDash and Uber Eats.

On Olo's app, customers will see the same prices that restaurants charge in-person patrons, the company said. By contrast, third-party delivery services often charge customers higher menu prices than diners would get at a restaurant.

Offering in-store prices can save customers between 15% and 30%, Olo said.

"It's a better experience for consumers and a more sustainable model for restaurants, with no menu price inflation and no barriers standing between great brands and the people and communities they serve," Olo CEO and founder Noah Glass said.

Food delivery is one area where consumers continue to spend money, even as they cut back their budgets elsewhere. How much customers pay for delivery — and whether apps charge individuals different prices or the same order — can affect how often they order.

Olo is stepping into a competitive space. DoorDash and Uber Eats continue to grow, including by rearching into club deliveries and catering. And Walmart, which spent years building its own grocery-focused delivery service, started delivering restaurant orders earlier this year.

Olo got its start in 2005 with a service that let users text their orders to restaurants in the pre-smartphone era. Now, the company fields about 3.5 million orders daily through around 800 restaurant brands.

The company doesn't have its own team of delivery drivers. Instead, the company uses its own dispatch service to compare delivery options at other third-party services, such as Grubhub, and pick one based on factors like cost and speed.

Olo's delivery app will allow customers to order from about 250 restaurants, including Five Guys and Dave's Hot Chicken.

Do you have a story idea about Uber Eats, DoorDash, or another delivery service? Contact this reporter at abitter@businessinsider.com or via encrypted messaging app Signal at 808-854-4501. Use a personal email address, a nonwork WiFi network, and a nonwork device; here's our guide to sharing information securely.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I worked at Trader Joe's for 2 years. Here are 11 of my favorite items to buy for easy meal prep.

20 October 2026 at 16:35
A red Trader Joe's basket on the floor, filled with different products.
After working at Trader Joe's for two years, I know which items are worth buying.

Susanna Maize

  • As a former Trader Joe's employee, I know the store inside and out.
  • I rely on the store's products for quick, nutritious meals that I can make ahead of time.
  • Some of my favorite items include the frozen pie crusts, soy chorizo, and miso-ginger broth.

After shopping at Trader Joe's for over 20 years — and working at my local store for two — I like to think I know the chain inside and out.

The retailer is my go-to spot for picking up budget-friendly meals I can make in my small apartment kitchen.

Here are some of my favorite items to buy for quick meals I can throw together without much thought.

I love making a veggie-loaded quiche with Trader Joe's frozen pie crusts.
Boxes of Trader Joe's pie crusts in the frozen section.

Susanna Maize

I think Trader Joe's frozen pie crusts taste just as good as homemade versions, but are way more convenient to use.

I throw in whatever vegetables I have kicking around in the back of my fridge to make an easy quiche — with plenty of leftovers to take to work.

Trader Joe's soy chorizo is a versatile item.
Packages of Trader Joe's soy chorizo on a shelf, with a sign that reads $2.99.

Susanna Maize

I'm not a fan of repeating the same meal every day, so I like to opt for versatile ingredients.

For example, I keep Trader Joe's flavorful soy chorizo on hand for quesadillas, tacos, burritos, or taco salads, giving me plenty of options throughout the week.

I always stock up on seasonal veggies.
A display of honeynut squash, butternut squash, and spaghetti squash.

Susanna Maize

Although Trader Joe's pre-prepared and frozen sections are always enticing, I get the most bang for my buck by buying whole ingredients and cooking them myself. That's why the produce section is always my first stop.

Most recently, my local store had a great display of fall vegetables, so I got my favorite — honeynut squash. Similar to butternut squash, it tastes delicious roasted in grain bowls and salads.

Sheet-pan gnocchi is one of my go-to weeknight dinners.
Containers of Trader Joe's gnocchi on a shelf.

Susanna Maize

I find that when gnocchi roasts in the oven, it takes on a lovely chewy-yet-crispy texture that's far superior to bland boiled gnocchi.

I add it to a well-oiled sheet pan with cherry tomatoes, chopped onion, zucchini, and sausage, then serve it on a bed of arugula with a dollop of pesto on top.

Trader Joe's broccoli-and-kale slaw makes a great base for salads.
A hand holding a bag of Trader Joe's broccoli-and-kale slaw.

Susanna Maize

I find that Trader Joe's sturdy broccoli-and-kale slaw fares much better than leafy greens.

So, I like to pack up a batch of the salad (without the dressing) to enjoy throughout the week.

I always keep a can of Trader Joe's vegetarian chili in the pantry.
Stacked cans of Trader Joe's organic vegetarian chili.

Susanna Maize

Trader Joe's organic vegetarian chili saves me on days I don't feel like cooking. It's classic, comforting, and just dying to be dressed up.

I like to pair it with grilled cheese for dipping, add it to a box of Trader Joe's mac and cheese, or serve it on a baked potato.

The Thai-style red-curry sauce packs tons of flavor.
Bottles of Trader Joe's Thai-style red-curry sauce on a shelf.

Susanna Maize

Trader Joe's bottled sauces are my secret to quick, flavorful dinners that require minimal prep.

Instead of ordering takeout, I make a delicious curry with onion, peppers, and broccoli — the Thai-style red-curry sauce does all the heavy lifting.

I turn Trader Joe's marinated chickpeas into a high-protein lunch.
Stacked cans of Trader Joe's parsley-and-cumin Greek chickpeas with a price tag that reads $2.49.

Susanna Maize

Trader Joe's Greek chickpeas come packed in a flavorful, herby marinate, so no dressing is required. However, I like to add cucumbers, tomato, onion, and feta for a delicious Mediterranean-style salad.

Trader Joe's miso-ginger broth serves as the backbone for a delicious soup.
Containers of Trader Joe's miso-ginger broth on a shelf.

Susanna Maize

Although Trader Joe's miso-ginger broth is great on its own, I always jazz it up with some sautéed veggies, frozen potstickers, and a soft-boiled egg.

It also pairs great with Trader Joe's instant ramen for a comforting, hearty noodle soup.

I always keep Trader Joe’s Mediterranean hummus on hand for easy lunches.
Stacks of different types of hummus on a shelf at Trader Joe's.

Susanna Maize

In my opinion, Trader Joe's Mediterranean hummus is truly the best store-bought version around. It's also one of the few that comes in a big enough container to last me more than a couple of days.

I love to pack bento-style snack boxes with a scoop of hummus, chopped veggies, and crackers to take with me.

Trader Joe's peanut-butter granola is my breakfast hero.
Packages of Trader Joe's peanut-butter-protein granola on a shelf.

Susanna Maize

I always prioritize having a high-protein breakfast to keep my energy levels up throughout the day.

So, I love making a PB&J-inspired yogurt bowl with Greek yogurt, Trader Joe's peanut-butter granola, and a swirl of jam on top.

This story was originally published on October 24, 2024, and most recently updated on October 20, 2026.

Keep reading our Trader Joe's diaries to see what other shoppers are putting in their carts.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I'm a dietitian who helps busy parents lose weight. I always swear by these 8 family-friendly meals.

20 October 2026 at 16:25
Quesadilla with vegetables, cabbage and cilantro and corn on side, and dipping sauces
Some meals are easy to prepare and customize for both adults on a weight-loss journey and children.

Simon McGill/Getty Images

  • I'm a mom of three and a dietitian who often works with busy parents who are trying to lose weight.
  • Meals like quesadillas and Cobb salads can easily be made more nutritious or kid-friendly.
  • Burrito bowls and dishes made with protein-rich pasta can be customized for parents and children.

As a registered dietitian who helps busy parents lose weight — and as a mom of three myself — I know the struggle of trying to make just one dinner that works for everyone at the table.

In many cases, kids want something fun and familiar, while parents aim for somewhat nutritious meals that support their weight-loss goals.

Fortunately, you don't have to cook a bunch of separate dinners or settle for "kid food."

Here are eight family-friendly meals I swear by that allow for simple swaps and add-ons to make them lighter, more nutrient-dense, and better for balancing blood sugar.

Build-your-own burrito bowls are easy to customize.
Rice bowl with chicken, tomato, avocado, corn, beans

EBGraphix/Getty Images

This works well as a buffet-style dinner option where everyone can fill their plate to fit their food preferences.

Start with pulled rotisserie chicken as the main lean protein, and add side dishes of black beans and brown rice for fiber-rich carbohydrates.

Chopped lettuce, salsa, and avocado are great additions for more flavor and nutrients. Kids may prefer having tortillas available to make their own burritos.

Use one pack of buns for two different sausages.
Two plates with hot dogs and veggies on them

Vanessa Imus

Fire up the grill, and while the kids enjoy hot dogs, swap yours for a leaner chicken sausage. They're typically higher in protein and lower in fat, making them a better fit for weight management.

Load yours with gut-friendly toppings like sauerkraut and grilled onions, and pair it with a side of slaw or grilled veggies and antioxidant-rich berries.

This way, you can have a balanced dish while your kids enjoy a classic.

While the kids eat chicken strips, turn a few into a hearty Cobb salad.
Chicken, hard-boiled egg, tomato, in bowl with dressing in center

Luca Melo/Getty Images

The best meals for weight loss tend to be high in protein and contain a lot of bulky veggies or fruits. So, make a few extra chicken strips for yourself and use them as a protein source in a satisfying Cobb salad.

Add chopped chicken strips to romaine lettuce, tomato, bacon bits, sliced boiled egg, and a sprinkle of blue-cheese crumbles. Pair the salad with a light portion of dressing.

A Cobb salad is great because egg, bacon, and chicken can add enough protein to the meal to help keep you satisfied. Meanwhile, produce like romaine and tomatoes adds nutrients, bulk, and variety to the meal without making it high in calories.

Quesadillas can be simple and kid-approved or more nutritious for health-conscious adults.
Quesadilla with vegetables, cabbage and cilantro and corn on side, and dipping sauces

Simon McGill/Getty Images

It's easy to customize cheese quesadillas to be as simple or as intricate as you and your kids prefer.

To upgrade your own, add lean ground beef or ground turkey (protein), nonfat refried beans (fiber), and roasted peppers or onions (vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants).

The protein and fiber combo in this meal can help you feel full faster and longer, helping avoid the urge for late-night snacks.

As a bonus, serve everyone a side of cucumber or jicama slices for an extra dose of fruit or veggies that provide a crunchy, fiber-rich addition.

Use common taco ingredients to make a satisfying salad.
plate with a hard-shell taco and one with a bed of lettuce with neat, cheese
taco

Vanessa Imus

Tacos are a weekly staple in our house. The kids love theirs with ground beef or turkey, topped with shredded cheese, all stuffed inside a crispy taco shell.

Fortunately, it's easy to transform these sorts of ingredients into a hearty, protein-rich, nutrient-dense taco salad.

Start by filling a bowl with chopped romaine, cherry tomatoes, black beans, salsa, avocado, and lean ground turkey or beef. Sprinkle a crumbled taco shell on top for crunch, then add a little dressing if desired.

This way, you can enjoy the same taco flavors, just way more veggies and fewer carbs to help you stick to your daily calorie goals.

Better-for-you ramen can be served two ways.
Ramen in a bowl next to bowl with ramen noddles, fruit, meat
Ramen

Vanessa Imus

A basic ramen recipe can be upgraded with lean protein, such as diced chicken and a hard-boiled egg, and leafy greens, like spinach or bok choy.

Aim to fill one side of your bowl with protein and vegetables, reserving the noodles and broth for the other half.

If your kids are a little picky, just serve components of the dish separately and adjust the ingredients you use. Serve noodles with some of their favorite fruit, so they can pick and choose what they like.

Pizza can work for everyone.
One plate with pizza slices and veggies and one plate with pizza and fruit, veggies

Vanessa Imus

With some adjustments, pizza night can still be great for parents trying to manage their weight.

First off, using a cauliflower crust is a great way to reduce the carb count of a typical pizza dinner while adding more vegetables.

More veggies means more fiber for gut health and extra nutrients that help support your metabolism and overall health.

I also like to serve a salad or raw veggies on the side to help me fill up on lower-calorie foods, so I can stick to smaller portions of pizza while still feeling satisfied.

Be sure to also add protein to your pizza to create a more balanced meal. Chicken is a great lean option, but I also understand if you're more of a sausage or pepperoni fan.

Pasta doesn't have to derail your weight loss efforts.
Spiral pasta with meatballs, broccoli

Aarthi Arunkumar/Getty Images

There are several ways to enjoy pasta regularly without disrupting weight-loss efforts.

First, swap out your noodles. Regular pasta is high in carbohydrates, which can spike blood sugar when eaten in large portions or without being balanced by protein and fiber.

Instead, use noodles made from lentils or chickpeas. They contain more fiber and protein, slowing how quickly carbohydrates are absorbed and helping keep blood sugar steadier — which can help with weight management.

Once the noodles are coated in sauce, your kids may not even notice you've made the swap.

Skip high-fat, calorie-laden cream sauces and top your pasta with marinara, which is naturally low in calories. Top with prepackaged frozen meatballs for an easy protein boost.

Don't forget to mix spinach or roasted broccoli into your dish for extra fiber. For pickier eaters, you may want to serve it on the side.

This story was originally published on November 3, 2025, and most recently updated on October 20, 2026.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I've been a Costco executive member for 11 years. I swear by these 7 freezer staples for quick, family-approved meals.

20 October 2026 at 14:41
Freezers full of frozen fruit at Costco.
We swear by Costco's selection of frozen fruit.

Allison Lau

  • I'm a diehard Costco fan who's had an executive membership for 11 years.
  • My family swears by the store's freezer section for easy breakfasts, quick appetizers, and snacks.
  • Some of our favorite products include Kirkland Signature frozen fruit and Bibigio spring rolls.

With a busy schedule and a hungry family, I'd be a mess if it weren't for Costco's extensive frozen options.

I've been an executive member for 11 years, and I feed my family of four — my husband, my son, my mother-in-law, and myself — almost exclusively with Costco products.

We're diehard loyalists, thanks to the value, the store's wide selection, and our general trust in the products Costco stocks. We consider the store's freezers our cheat code to fast, balanced, and easy breakfasts, snacks, and dinner appetizers.

These are the staples we always have in the house and swear by.

Our days start with waffles.
Boxes of frozen Eggo waffles at Costco.
captiontk

Allison Lau

By far the most cherished meal of the day in our family is breakfast. In fact, I've somehow turned it into a DIY multi-course meal.

While I'm making a fruit smoothie — more on that soon — I toss Eggo's homestyle waffles in the toaster. They're a crowd-pleaser for kids and adults alike, and at Costco, I can buy a pack of 60 for about $11.

Frozen berries make smoothies an easy staple.
Packages of KIRKLAND Signature ORGANIC STRAWBERRIES are stacked in cardboard display boxes in a freezer case.
I always stock up on frozen strawberries.

Allison Lau

I love making smoothies with frozen fruit — and thankfully, Costco has tons of options.

I'm obsessed with Kirkland Signature's frozen organic blueberries. A bag costs $9.59, which works out to about $3.20 a pound. Blueberries have always felt like a luxury to me, so the fact that I can get them at such a great price will never not be exciting.

The frozen blueberries pair perfectly with Kirkland Signature's frozen organic strawberries. At my local store, these are even cheaper than the blueberries at $11.99 for a 4-pound bag, which works out to $3 a pound.

Fresh strawberries can fluctuate dramatically in price and availability in my area, so it's so reassuring to have consistent, delicious frozen options year-round.

I swear by frozen mangoes, too.
Nature's Touch Organic Mango bags sit in orange cardboard display boxes marked Peeled & Pitted.
mango tk

Allison Lau

This is our final frozen fruit fixation.

Our local Costco has been stocking organic frozen mangoes from Nature's Touch lately. I love that they're peeled and pitted, which takes so much of the work off my plate.

At $10.39 per bag, the mangoes work out to about $2.07 a pound. They're by far our cheapest frozen fruit in the freezer, and the most delightfully tropical.

We spice up the mornings with Annie's cinnamon rolls, usually as a weekend treat.
Stacks of purple Annie's organic cinnamon rolls multipack boxes are displayed on a store shelf.
cinnamon

Allison Lau

We discovered Annie's frozen cinnamon rolls when our two-year-old tried a free sample at our local store. His face lit up far too adorably for me to say no.

Now, whenever we feel like enjoying a fancier breakfast, I'll pull out a tube. Each tube comes with five reasonably-sized rolls, plus just the right amount of icing.

Our Costco sells packs of three tubes for $14.89, meaning each roll is under $1. Another free-sample success story!

Frozen appetizers like vegetable spring rolls are the fastest way to make our at-home dinners feel fancy.
Boxes of Bibigo vegetable spring rolls at Costco.
These spring rolls are a big hit with our vegetarian friends and family.

Allison Lau

I swear we eat meals other than breakfast. Bibigo's vegetable spring rolls are one of our favorite additions to any dinner. A box of 50 (yes, 50!) is $9.49 at my local store.

Appetizers have always felt like an indulgence in my family, so there's nothing better than pulling out a dozen spring rolls to snack on as we make dinner. Don't skip the sweet soy-ginger dipping sauce, either.

We also love Sukhi's Irresistible Indian Cuisine samosas.
Boxes of Sukhi's Irresistible Indian Cuisine samosas at Costco.
caption

Allison Lau

Samosas are delicious, but a food item I won't even try to make on my own. Luckily, I discovered Sukhi's Irresistible Indian Cuisine samosas at Costco. A box of 16 costs $15.99 at my nearest store.

These are a true crowd pleaser, especially when vegetarian family members are in town.

The potato-and-peas flavor, combined with the provided cilantro chutney, is truly divine.

Nothing's better than a Kirkland Signature ice-cream bar.
Boxes of Kirkland Signature ice-cream bars at Costco.
We're obsessed with Costco's ice-cream bars.

Allison Lau

Now I must wax poetic about my all-time favorite Costco freezer staple.

With creamy vanilla ice cream, milk chocolate, and a sprinkle of crushed almonds, Kirkland Signature's ice-cream bars are the perfect dessert, especially in the middle of California's perpetual summer heat wave.

I genuinely prefer these ice-cream bars over name-brand competitors. They're so coveted in our house that we have to take "Kirkland bar" shifts where each parent hides in the garage and enjoys their ice cream — or else we end up with an over-sugared, sticky toddler.

These usually cost $10.59 for 18 bars at my Costco, but they go on sale regularly. We always stock up.

Curious to know what other shoppers put in their carts? Check out our other Costco diaries here.

Read the original article on Business Insider

EU Ministers Agree New Agricultural Market Rules as Farm Budget Dispute Continues

20 October 2026 at 10:29

European Union governments have agreed a negotiating position on new agricultural market rules intended to take effect under the bloc’s 2028–2034 budget, advancing reforms to support arrangements for farmers while leaving the most contentious financial questions unresolved.

The Council approved its partial negotiating mandate on Monday, 19 October, covering changes to the Common Market Organisation regulation, which governs agricultural markets across the European Union.

The proposals include new arrangements for wine producers, protein crops and oilseeds, revised marketing standards, changes to the EU school food programme and provisions intended to improve preparedness for agricultural market disruptions.

However, the agreement does not settle future funding allocations or the broader structure of agricultural subsidies, which remain under negotiation as EU governments attempt to reconcile farming expenditure with competing demands for defence, industrial investment and regional development.

Agricultural markets under review

The Council’s negotiating position retains much of the European Commission’s original proposal while introducing amendments intended to accommodate national differences in agricultural production.

Under the proposed arrangements, sector-specific interventions would become mandatory in several areas, including beekeeping, fruit and vegetables and, under certain circumstances, wine production.

The Council has also proposed flexibility for countries where particular sectors are absent or relatively undeveloped.

For the wine industry, governments would be able to seek exemptions from certain obligations where national circumstances justify different arrangements.

This would allow the framework to retain common European rules while avoiding requirements that would be inappropriate for member states with little or no domestic wine production.

Sectoral interventions form part of the mechanisms through which the EU supports agricultural markets and producer organisations. They can cover measures intended to improve competitiveness, manage production and strengthen farmers’ commercial position.

New provisions for protein crops

The Council has endorsed the establishment of a separate sector for protein crops and oilseeds, replacing existing provisions covering dried fodder.

The objective is to encourage domestic production and reduce dependence on imported agricultural inputs, particularly crops used in animal feed and food production.

European livestock producers rely on protein-rich feed ingredients, including soyabeans, that are often sourced internationally.

Greater domestic production could reduce exposure to fluctuations in global commodity prices, transport costs and disruptions to international supply chains.

Under the Council’s proposal, member states would be encouraged to recognise producer organisations specialising in protein crops and oilseeds.

Such organisations can help farmers coordinate production, marketing and investment, although the effectiveness of the proposed measures will depend on how they are implemented nationally.

The proposals follow broader EU efforts to improve supply security in sectors extending from agricultural inputs to critical industrial materials.

School food and product labelling

The negotiating mandate also preserves the EU school scheme, which provides support for the distribution of fruit, vegetables and milk to schoolchildren.

Under the proposed framework, the programme would move from a school-year financing cycle to a calendar-year system, with transitional provisions intended to prevent disruption during implementation.

The Council has maintained the Commission’s objective of encouraging healthier eating habits by limiting products containing high levels of free sugars and fats.

The proposal also opens the possibility of additional marketing standards for several agricultural products, including protein crops, beef, pork, sheepmeat, goatmeat and rice.

These standards could provide consumers with more detailed information about product origins, subject to the final legislation.

Such measures would also have implications for producers and food businesses, which would need to comply with any new requirements concerning classification, marketing and labelling.

The Council additionally supports the harmonisation of rules covering industrial hemp, while retaining safeguards concerning seed certification and the permitted level of tetrahydrocannabinol.

Farming subsidies remain contested

The agricultural market agreement forms part of negotiations over the next Common Agricultural Policy, which will operate within the EU’s new seven-year financial framework.

Under the Commission’s proposed budget structure, several funding streams, including agricultural and cohesion programmes, would be brought together within national and regional partnership plans.

The restructuring has encountered opposition from governments and agricultural interests concerned that farming could lose protected access to EU funding.

As EU Today previously reported, 17 member states have called for agricultural and regional development expenditure to be protected against further reductions.

The Council’s latest position addresses how agricultural markets should operate rather than determining the size of the financial support available to them.

A separate debate concerns the conditions for receiving direct farm payments, including the definition of an active farmer and the degree of discretion granted to national governments.

Those questions remain central to the continuing CAP negotiations, which are due to return to the Agriculture and Fisheries Council on 26–27 October.

Negotiations move to Parliament

The Council’s partial mandate now provides a basis for negotiations with the European Parliament on the agricultural market provisions.

The legislation will still require agreement between the institutions, while its financing will depend on the eventual settlement of the 2028–2034 budget.

Governments must also complete negotiations on the wider CAP framework, including direct income support and the distribution of responsibility between Brussels and national administrations.

The market agreement reached on 19 October therefore establishes important elements of the proposed agricultural rules, but leaves unresolved the level of financial support available to European farmers after 2027.

Do not be distracted by global crises. Nature cannot wait for a better year – we must act now | Steven Guilbeault

20 October 2026 at 08:00

In 2022, I helped push through the international agreement to protect biodiversity. Wars and economic pressures can make nature seem like a ‘nice-to-have’. But it is a critical asset, and Cop17 must deliver real action

When I was five, property developers came to cut down the woods behind my home in La Tuque, Quebec. My mother encouraged me to climb one of the trees in protest, then told the developers, straight-faced, that there was nothing she could do when they asked her to get me down. A few days later, the tree was cut down anyway.

I thought about that tree in the early hours of a freezing Montreal morning in December 2022, as the gavel came down on a global agreement between nearly 200 countries to halt and reverse the loss of nature by 2030. I thought about how important nature is for our health, our food security and our economies, but also how much passion there is around protecting it, and how it has the power to inspire people all around the world.

Continue reading...

© Photograph: COP17

© Photograph: COP17

© Photograph: COP17

Committee on World Food Security Convenes in Rome

20 October 2026 at 07:27
From October 19 to 23, the world gathers in Rome for the 54th session of the Committee on World Food Security (CFS)*—a global platform dedicated to combating hunger and malnutrition, and to upholding the right to food. Discussions will focus on food security, coordinated responses to food crises, and sustainable food systems. The agenda will […]

France Introduces New Tax on Added Sugar

20 October 2026 at 07:14
A new tax on added sugar in France could lead to higher prices for sweet products. The measure was proposed by the government as part of the 2027 draft budget and has been approved by members of parliament. However, it has raised concerns among manufacturers. The new tax follows an existing levy on carbonated drinks […]

7 of the best sparkling wines to get at Costco, according to a sommelier

19 October 2026 at 16:45
Side by side of Kirkland Signature prosecco and Champagne brut
Some of the best sparkling wines at Costco are from the Kirkland Signature label, in my opinion.

Brianne Cohen

  • As a sommelier, wine is my job — and sparkling wine is my favorite. Costco's a good place to get it.
  • Costco has solid prosecco and cava, plus fancy vintage Champagne like Henriot
  • There are also great sparkling wines from brands like Roederer Estate and Moët & Chandon.

I wasn't sure if my husband and I would be able to get the full value out of our Costco membership, but I was wrong.

Although not every location sells alcohol, our local Costco does — and I've found this bulk retailer has some of the best wine prices.

This comes in handy because, as a certified sommelier, I buy a lot of wine for tastings, events, and even my own collection. And every time I go to Costco, I seem to discover something new, whether it's a unique variety or an especially great deal.

Here are some of the best sparkling wines I've found at Costco so far.

Editor's Note: Prices and availability may vary.

The Kirkland Signature Prosecco feels like a steal.
bottles of kirkland prosecco on the shelves at Costco

Brianne Cohen

Typically around $10 a bottle, Kirkland Signature's prosecco is one of the most affordable sparkling wines I've seen at Costco.

Don't let the price fool you, though. This wine is from the "Superiore" area of the Italian prosecco region, meaning the winemaking standards are higher.

The Kirkland Signature bottle is on the sweet side, and it's perfect for brunch mimosas.

Moët sells millions of bottles of its Champagne every year.
bottles of moet on the shleves at costco

Brianne Cohen

Moët & Chandon Champagne is probably the most iconic wine on this list.

As a sommelier, people often ask for a glass of Champagne whenever they want something fizzy. However, true Champagne has to be made in the Champagne region of France — trust me, it actually makes a difference.

The flavors are much more complex and layered than a standard sparkling wine. There's also something special and luxurious about Champagne.

This bottle is amazing on its own, but also shines with salty snacks such as potato chips, mixed nuts, and popcorn.

Kirkland Signature's Champagne is also hype-worthy.
botles of kirkland champagne on the shleves at costco

Brianne Cohen

You may not expect much from the Kirkland Signature brut Champagne, but it's hard to find another bottle like it.

It's true Champagne that I've typically seen for about $21 — it's rare to find a large bottle of the stuff at such a low price.

This variety is a little lighter and fresher than some Champagnes, but if that doesn't bother you, it's a total winner.

Roederer Estate makes a stunning $20 sparkler.
bottles of sparkling wine at costco

Brianne Cohen

If regions don't matter to you, try this pick from Roederer Estate.

Some big Champagne brands purchase land and make Champagne-style sparkling wines worldwide. In this case, Louis Roederer bought property in Northern California's Anderson Valley.

Its sparkling brut is a delight and I've seen it for $20 to $30 a bottle. In comparison, the brand's true French Champagne goes for closer to $60 to $80.

I like the Californian Roederer Estate stuff so much that I served it at my own wedding.

If you've got Champagne taste on a beer budget, try cava.
bottles of cava on the shelf at costco

Brianne Cohen

Choosing cava is a great way to save money on sparkling wine.

The Spanish sparkler uses the same production method as Champagne but rarely costs more than $20 a bottle. Costco even has one from Blanchard Perez that I've seen for under $10.

Cava is generally dry, with little to no sweetness. I love serving it with appetizers and tapas.

I've also found solid sparkling rosés at Costco.
bottles of sparkling rose on the shelves at costco

Brianne Cohen

The only thing more on trend than sparkling wine is sparkling rosé, and Scharffenberger Cellars has a bottle for around $20 at Costco.

The affordable Californian wine is made from grapes grown in Mendocino County and has a cheerful effervescence.

It pairs well with light dishes such as salads, shrimp cocktail, and smoked salmon dips.

For when only fancy vintage Champagne will do, turn to Henriot.
boxes of vintage champagne on the shelves at Costco

Brianne Cohen

I wanted to include one special, pricier wine on the list, and that spot went to the $150 bottle of Henriot I found at Costco.

It's a vintage Champagne, which means all the grapes were harvested in the same year.

Henriot has been around for over 200 years, and it's one of the few larger brands that's still independent and family-owned. For me, this Champagne hits all the marks for complexity, flavor, acid, and finish.

This story was originally published on February 19, 2025, and most recently updated on October 19, 2026.

Read the original article on Business Insider

I tried chili recipes from 3 celebrity chefs to find the best. My top pick even beat Ina Garten's take on the dish.

19 October 2026 at 15:17
The writer Chelsea Davis stands next to a stove and holds a black pot of a chili and puts her arm around two other pots of chili
I followed chili recipes from three celebrity chefs and found that not every great one was tomato- and beef-based.

Chelsea Davis

  • I made chili recipes from celebrity chefs Ina Garten, Ree Drummond, and Giada De Laurentiis.
  • Garten's recipe, which didn't call for any beans, didn't really feel like traditional chili.
  • One of my favorites had white beans and chicken, a far cry from a traditional beef chili.

Cold weather is always better with hearty meals, like a warm bowl of chili.

In search of the best one to make on repeat all fall and winter, I tried recipes from celebrity chefs Ina Garten, Ree Drummond, and Giada De Laurentiis.

Here's how the dishes turned out, and which ended up being my top picks.

I started with Garten's recipe, which didn't feel familiar to me at all

Bell peppers, onion, spices on table
Ina Garten's chili didn't even have beans in it.

Chelsea Davis

Garten's chicken chili recipe, which I found on the Food Network website, seemed fairly straightforward.

I needed easy-to-find ingredients like yellow onion, minced garlic, red bell peppers, yellow bell pepper, chili powder, cumin, dried red-pepper flakes, cayenne, basil, chicken breasts, and cans of whole peeled plum tomatoes in puree.

I simmered the onions and garlic until translucent, added the spices and herbs, diced bell peppers, and whole tomatoes, and cooked for about half an hour.

Bell peppers and tomato sauce in pot
I mixed the tomato sauce with the bell peppers.

Chelsea Davis

This mixture was very similar to a chunky pasta sauce.

Instead of roasting the chicken breasts, I sautéed them in a pan

Chicken breasts in pan
I think cooking the chicken breasts in a pan was faster than baking them.

Chelsea Davis

Though the recipe said to split olive oil-covered chicken breasts and bake them in the oven, I decided to sautée them in a pan since it seemed more efficient.

I sautéed them for about 12 minutes on each side, diced them, and combined them with the tomato-and-pepper sauce.

I let the chili simmer for another 20 minutes.

Garten's recipe didn't quite satisfy my chili craving

Chicken and vegetable chili in pot
In my opinion, Ina Garten's chili didn't feel like the classic comfort food.

Chelsea Davis

This recipe wasn't as hearty as a typical chili and had a strong tomato flavor and a lot of bell-pepper chunks.

The chicken was juicy but could have benefited from a different, more potent seasoning blend.

Topped with shredded cheese, it was filling, but not what I would want if I were in the mood for a traditional chili.

A few of my Filipino relatives tried this chili and loved it on top of white rice without cheese, though.

The next recipe I tried was Drummond's, which felt like a traditional chili

Ground beef, corn grits, and spices on table
Ree Drummond's recipe includes what I consider chili staples, like ground meat and beans.

Chelsea Davis

I followed a recipe for Pioneer Woman's "simple, perfect chili" that I also found on the Food Network website.

Its ingredients seemed very classic for a chili with things like ground beef, chopped garlic, tomato sauce, chili powder, cumin, oregano, cayenne pepper, and canned beans.

I was surprised to see masa harina, a dried maize-based flour often used as a thickening agent, as an ingredient.

Drummond's recipe was super easy, though I made a substitution

Beans and ground beef in pot
Ree Drummond's one-pot chili came together pretty easily.

Chelsea Davis

To start, I browned ground beef in a large pot with minced garlic and drained the fat.

I added chili powder, cumin, oregano, and cayenne pepper to the meat and incorporated the tomato sauce.

After stirring, I let the chili simmer for an hour, adding a half cup of water when the mixture looked a bit dry.

Ground-beef chili cooking
I used corn grits instead of masa harina, which I thought worked well.

Chelsea Davis

I didn't have masa harina, which needed to be turned into a paste for this recipe, so I substituted it with corn grits.

To do so, I mixed the grits with water and stirred them into the chili. Then, I drained and rinsed my cans of pinto and kidney beans, and added them to the mixture along with more seasonings and salt to taste.

I let all of that simmer for about 10 minutes.

Drummond's recipe made an excellent traditional chili

Chili with beans in pot
Ree Drummond's finished chili was tasty.

Chelsea Davis

Drummond's easy-to-make recipe was meaty, hearty, and filling.

It was nice and thick, and I liked the ground beef and texture from the pinto and kidney beans. The cumin and spices added a warm flavor, too.

For me, it checked all the boxes for a tasty chili.

De Laurentiis uses ground chicken in her chili recipe

Onions, garlic, ground chicken, broth, and spices on table
Giada de Laurentiis' recipe called for ground chicken.

Chelsea Davis

Next, I tried De Laurentiis' recipe for white bean and chicken chili as found on the Food Network website.

The ingredients were fairly simple, including ground chicken, onion, cumin, chili powder, Swiss chard, canned cannellini beans (or other white beans), frozen corn, fennel seeds, chicken stock, and red-pepper flakes.

For serving, she suggested topping the chili with Parmesan and chopped parsley.

To start, I simmered chopped onions and minced garlic until translucent and added ground chicken, salt, cumin, fennel, oregano, and chili powder.

Ground chicken and spices in pot
I think the ground chicken soaked up all the flavors from the seasonings.

Chelsea Davis

After the meat cooked through, I added the roughly-chopped Swiss chard, beans, corn, and chicken stock.

Per the recipe, I made sure to scrape the browned bits off the bottom of the pot

Swiss chard and chili flakes combined with ground-chicken chili in pot
Giada De Laurentiis' chili called for Swiss chard.

Chelsea Davis

I let the mixture simmer for about an hour, added chili flakes, and cooked for about 10 more minutes.

When plating, I sprinkled Parmesan and parsley on top.

This chili had some great flavors

Cooked chicken chili
Giada De Laurentiis' chili was delicious.

Chelsea Davis

De Laurentiis' chili wasn't particularly conventional — with the Swiss chard, ground chicken, and Parmesan — but I thought it was tasty.

I enjoyed the savory flavor of the crunchy corn, tender white beans, and vegetal Swiss chard. The stock and ground chicken gave this a rich, meaty taste, too.

I thought this was the perfect, comforting bowl of chili.

For me, the recipes from Drummond and De Laurentiis tied for first place

Three pots of chili with arrows
The only chili recipe I wouldn't make again was Ina Garten's.

Chelsea Davis

I loved both Drummond's traditional chili and De Laurentiis' chicken version for their hearty, savory, and complex flavors.

They were different types of chili, but equally delicious for game day.

Though Garten's recipe wasn't bad, the chunky texture wasn't my favorite, and it just didn't do it for me in terms of what I look for in a chili.

Check out the other celebrity-chef recipes we've put head-to-head so far.

This story was originally published on February 11, 2022, and most recently updated on October 19, 2026.

Read the original article on Business Insider

Feeding the Revolution

19 October 2026 at 15:00

“As a child, I thought of the burrito as something predictable, filling, and reliable. It would be years before I saw it as a source of political conviction; something that once split my family’s loyalty between their hungry children and a revolutionary cause.” In this essay at Orion, Victoria Blanco writes about her Abuelita, whose family had owned a burrería in downtown Juárez during the Mexican Revolution, and how she worked hard there through childhood, making burritos for Pancho Villa’s troops—an army fighting for a better life for the next generation. “The food we ate was built for movement,” she writes, “the same way we were.” Blanco reflects on the burrito as a symbol resistance, the borderland, and belonging.

I found the unspoken parts of Abuelita’s childhood when I was working in a university archive as a student, examining photographs no one in my family had ever seen. One image stopped me completely: a rooftop terrace at the Paso del Norte hotel, where well-dressed Americans held cocktails and binoculars, watching the war across the river as though it were a form of entertainment. On the other side of that same river—a river with two names, Río Bravo on one bank, Rio Grande on the other—men were falling from gunfire while children went without food so that revolutionaries could have the sustenance they needed to keep fighting. I sat with that photograph for a long time, thinking about my abuelita, a girl somewhere in that city while Americans sipped cocktails and watched her world from a hotel roof.

Organic Eggs Have a Carbon Footprint Nearly Twice as Large

19 October 2026 at 09:07
The production of organic, free-range eggs can have a climate impact nearly twice as great as that of eggs produced by caged hens. This is according to a new study published in the scientific journal *Royal Society Open Science*, as reported by the British newspaper *The Guardian*. The analysis indicates that if the entire egg […]

Core values: the Austrian scheme bringing forgotten apple varieties back to life

19 October 2026 at 05:00

Spar pilot scheme will test whether heirloom fruit can thrive in today’s commercial and environmental conditions

Only about 10 of the 2,000 types of apples growing in Austria can be found in supermarkets among the polished, pristine fruit usually on display – a sad ratio according to fans of historic varieties being primed for a comeback.

One of the country’s biggest retail chains has embarked on a pilot rollout of unusual and long-forgotten apples enjoyed in previous centuries, riding an international trend of reviving heirloom fruit and vegetables.

Continue reading...

© Photograph: Marek Slusarczyk/Alamy

© Photograph: Marek Slusarczyk/Alamy

© Photograph: Marek Slusarczyk/Alamy

I tried Gordon Ramsay's favorite 10-minute pasta. Now I know why he makes it for his family every week.

18 October 2026 at 17:26
A bowl of pasta.
Gordon Ramsay has an easy 10-minute pasta.

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

  • I tried Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta, which he often makes for his family.
  • The dish features a turkey and leek sauce and is topped with crispy sage breadcrumbs.
  • Ramsay's delicious pasta was light and bright. It's perfect for a busy week.

Gordon Ramsay has never let me down when I need a quick recipe, whether it's a 15-minute Bolognese or a 10-minute bacon cheeseburger.

So I was ecstatic when I discovered that the Michelin-starred chef has an entire cookbook dedicated to dishes that can be made in 10 minutes.

The very first recipe I tried from "Ramsay in 10" was a turkey and leek pasta with crispy sage breadcrumbs.

"For a change, skip the Bolognese and make this creamy turkey and leek sauce in a fraction of the time instead," Ramsay writes in the description. "It might just become a regular midweek family meal, as it has at my house."

Ramsay's 10-minute pasta includes turkey, breadcrumbs, and leeks.
Ingredients laid out on a wooden surface.

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

To make Ramsay's 10-minute pasta for four, you'll need:

  • 17 ounces of fresh penne or fusilli pasta
  • 14 ounces of ground turkey
  • ¾ cup of heavy cream
  • 4 sage leaves
  • 4 regular shallots (or 2 banana shallots)
  • 3 garlic cloves
  • 2 leeks
  • 1 lemon
  • A handful of flat-leaf parsley leaves
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)

To make the breadcrumbs, you'll need:

  • 6 tablespoons of fresh breadcrumbs
  • 2 sage leaves
  • 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Ramsay notes in his cookbook that the breadcrumbs are optional, but I recommend taking the extra step. It was my first time making fresh breadcrumbs, and it couldn't have been easier.

But feel free to play around with the ingredients depending on your preferences. Ramsay said this dish also works well with ground chicken or sausage; the sage can easily be swapped for thyme, parsley, or tarragon; and any shape of fresh or dried pasta will do.

Before I started cooking, I needed to prep my ingredients.
Grated garlic and shallots.

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

First, I brought a saucepan of salted water to a boil so it'd be ready for the pasta in a few minutes.

Then, per Ramsay's recipe, I peeled and grated my shallots and garlic. If the handheld grater proves tricky — and risky for your fingers — feel free to use a knife to finish mincing the veggies.

After grating my shallots and garlic, I finely sliced the leeks.
Ingredients for Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

Ramsay recommends prepping your shallots and garlic while the olive oil is heating up in the pan and slicing your leeks right before you add the pasta. I'm still pretty slow at chopping veggies, so I got my prep out of the way so I wouldn't be stressed about burning anything. I also soaked my sliced leeks in a bowl of cold water to ensure they were fully cleaned.

The recipe took me a tad longer than 10 minutes, but you can follow Ramsay's lead if you're confident in your chopping speed!

I also prepped my fresh breadcrumbs.
Making breadcrumbs for Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

I simply tore two slices of bread into pieces and threw them into the food processor.

I placed my Dutch oven over medium-high heat and added two tablespoons of olive oil. Then I added my shallots and garlic to the pan.
Making Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

I allowed the shallots and garlic to cook for two minutes, stirring regularly.

If you don't have a Dutch oven handy, Ramsay says this recipe also works with a heavy-based frying pan or skillet.

After two minutes had passed, I threw in the turkey and sage leaves.
Browning turkey for Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

I broke the turkey up with a wooden spoon and allowed it to cook until the meat was lightly browned, which took around three to four minutes.

While the turkey cooked, I added my leeks to the boiling water.
Making Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

I let the leeks cook for one minute, per Ramsay's instructions.

I threw in the penne and allowed the noodles to cook until they were al dente.
Making Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

Since I chose penne, my pasta didn't cook in the speedy two minutes Ramsay recommends for fusilli. But just follow the instructions on your box, and the noodles will taste great.

While my pasta was cooking, I added the cream to my turkey.
Making Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

I stirred everything together and brought the sauce to a boil. Then I reduced the sauce to a simmer until I was ready to serve.

Next up were the crispy sage breadcrumbs.
Making Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

I placed a frying pan over medium heat and drizzled some olive oil. Then I added two sage leaves, which I had finely chopped.

I cooked the breadcrumbs until they were crisp and golden brown.
Breadcrumbs for Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

This happens very quickly — make sure to watch the pan carefully so they don't burn!

I drained my pasta and leeks and added the penne to the sauce.
Making Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

Ramsay recommends saving two to three tablespoons of the pasta water and adding it to the sauce.

I added the finely chopped parsley leaves, along with some lemon zest.
Mixing Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

I also added some salt and pepper before giving everything a big stir.

I topped everything off with the sage breadcrumbs.
Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

After I added the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and drizzle of olive oil that Ramsay recommends, I stepped back and admired my pasta.

The dish looked bright and inviting, thanks to the pops of color from the parsley and breadcrumbs, and I loved seeing so many different textures meld together. Plus, it smelled absolutely delicious.

Ramsay's 10-minute pasta took me a couple of extra minutes, but the final result was worth it.
Gordon Ramsay's 10-minute pasta

Anneta Konstantinides/Business Insider

I don't usually go for poultry with my pasta, so I was skeptical when making the turkey sauce. But I was pleasantly surprised by how much I loved Ramsay's recipe.

The sauce is light but packed with so much flavor. The leeks add a hint of lovely sweetness, and the lemon brightens each bite. The contrasting textures of the crispy sage breadcrumbs and the creamy sauce also make a fantastic team.

I don't usually crave a big meal on a weeknight, so I love that this pasta makes dinner interesting without being too heavy.

Whether you're longing for a quick weeknight dish or just want a light and bright recipe during the busy season, Ramsay's favorite 10-minute pasta will satisfy all your cravings.

And if you're looking for more recipe inspiration, you can check out my ranking of Gordon Ramsay's pasta dishes.

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I ordered turkey sandwiches at Jersey Mike's, Subway, and Jimmy John's. One totally stole the show.

18 October 2026 at 16:12
Turkey sandwiches from Jersey Mike's, Subway, and Jimmy Johns on paper wrappers
I ordered default turkey sandwiches from the sandwich chains Jersey Mike's, Subway, and Jimmy John's to find the best one.

Savannah Born

  • I compared turkey sandwiches from Jersey Mike's, Subway, and Jimmy John's to find the best one.
  • I wasn't impressed by the bread from Subway or Jimmy John's, but the sandwiches were OK.
  • Ultimately, Jersey Mike's was my clear winner with a generously loaded, flavorful turkey sandwich.

When noon rolls around, nothing is more classic than a turkey sandwich, a basic yet delicious staple of many American lunches — and a personal favorite of mine.

To me, a traditional turkey sandwich consists of sliced turkey, lettuce, and tomato stuffed between two mayo-slathered pieces of bread. If there's cheese, it's usually a mild white like Swiss or provolone.

Jersey Mike's, Subway, and Jimmy John's all offer some version of my go-to sandwich, so I set out to find the best one.

To keep things fair, I ordered each chain's regular-size sandwich without any customizations — and to be extra fastidious, I brought out my measuring tape to make sure the advertised inches were accurate, because you truly never know.

Here's how the sandwiches compared.

I started at Jersey Mike's, where I was surprised by an ultra-thick sub.
Sandwich from Jersey Mike's with tap measure on top of it measuring about 7 inches
I did measure each sandwich for this taste test.

Savannah Born

Jersey Mike's is recognized for its freshly sliced meats, "Mike's Way" preparation, and "juice," otherwise known as oil and vinegar. The Turkey and provolone sandwich came with all of the above.

The menu noted that all cold subs, including the turkey and provolone, are prepared "Mike's Way," which meant with lettuce, tomato, onion, seasonings, and the aforementioned "juice." Sliced turkey and provolone cheese completed the sandwich.

The regular (almost) 7-inch sub cost me $9.80 before tax, or roughly $1.40 per inch.

I enjoyed almost everything about Jersey Mike's turkey sandwich.
Jersey mike's sandwich cut in half with turkey, lettuce, tomato

Savannah Born

This put my homemade turkey sandwiches, which I considered solid, to shame.

Oil, vinegar, oregano, and salt gave an otherwise simple sandwich an incredibly flavorful twist, and it paired beautifully with the soft, crusty-at-the-edges bread. It felt like a hybrid turkey-and-Italian sandwich.

The turkey was surprisingly moist, as was the cheese — which made sense in hindsight, given that I watched the staff slice these ingredients in real time. I expected only a couple of slices of each, but I found at least five of turkey and three of cheese.

I can't say the lettuce, tomato, and onion were crisp, but that's probably because they soaked in "the juice" for the 30-minute drive home. In my opinion, though, the "Mike's Way" preparation was worth slightly soggy produce.

The sub didn't have mayonnaise, which would be a dealbreaker for some, but with brightness from "the juice," I didn't miss it. (Plus, I could always customize the sandwich to add the condiment on.)

My next stop was Subway, where my sandwich seemed like a solid value.
Subway sandwich with measuring tape on top showing 5.5 inches
My Subway sandwich seemed like a fair price.

Savannah Born

Aside from its 2008 "five-dollar footlong" advertisement, Subway is known for its freshly baked bread and customizable sandwiches. I didn't take advantage of the latter this time, but normally, I prefer building my own.

I ordered the oven-roasted turkey sandwich as is. It came with turkey, provolone cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, and mayonnaise. I opted for the standard artisan Italian bread.

My sub, which was meant to be 6 inches long, measured a little closer to 5½. It cost me $7.99 before tax, or roughly $1.33 per inch; although narrower, it towered almost as tall as Jersey Mike's.

The oven-roasted turkey sub was OK, but the bread didn't impress me.
Subway sandwich cut in half with turkey, lettuce, tomato, mayo

Subway

Like Jersey Mike's, Subway's sandwich was generous with the turkey. Plentiful, yes, but it was papery-thin and a bit lacking moisture. It reminded me of deli turkey from the grocery store.

On a lighter note, I liked the mild, buttery cheese and crisp lettuce, which tasted especially fresh. The thick tomato slices added a nice, juicy bite.

Those who enjoy raw red onions would appreciate Subway's crunchy slices. They sharpened the flavor, but in my opinion, they were a little too strong for a turkey sandwich.

The most dominant element of this sandwich was the mayonnaise, which was slathered on as if life depended on it. Again, some people might dig it, but it was too much for me.

Most disappointing was the bread. Given that Subway's known for its fresh-baked bread daily, I hoped it would be soft and chewy.

However, the bread in my sandwich seemed so dry that I wondered if it was stale.

My final stop was Jimmy John's, where my sandwich seemed half full.
Jimmy John's sandwich with measuring tape above it showing 8 inches

Savannah Born

I hadn't been to Jimmy John's in a few years, but I was excited to see if it still had its fresh French bread that so many people rave about.

The Turkey Tom included turkey, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise. No cheese, but I figured if the sandwich was good, it wouldn't need it.

My turkey sandwich cost $7.99 before tax, or about $1 per inch.

Although it didn't seem to have much filling, I was impressed by its 8-inch length.

Unfortunately, I felt the sub lacked flavor and substance.
Jimmy Johns turkey sandwich cut in half

Savannah Born

If thin and slim is your forte, Jimmy John's sandwich will be right up your alley. However, for something satisfying, it wouldn't be my first choice.

To its credit, the sandwich had juicy turkey slices and mayo that tasted like Hellmann's. (After checking the website, I confirmed that it actually was.)

But I felt the sub lacked pizzazz, probably because it didn't contain onions, cheese, or much of anything at all. I missed the cheese most.

I could customize it to include those things next time, but I'm not sure I'd come back for this sandwich.

The bread didn't wow me either.
Jimmy Johns' turkey sandwich with no filling visible

Savannah Born

I expected Jimmy John's bread to be a redeeming factor since, according to the chain's website, it bakes fresh loaves every four hours, but it was mediocre at best.

It might have been softer had I eaten it at the restaurant, but after the drive home, it wasn't particularly pillowy.

Overall, I found this sandwich forgettable — something I could easily make at home with a few simple ingredients. If I did so, I'd certainly add cheese.

I'd only order one sandwich again.
Turkey sandwiches from Jersey Mikes, Subway, and Jimmy John's side by side on cutting board

Savannah Born

Even though it came out the priciest per inch, Jersey Mike's turkey sub felt like the best value. Its substantial weight, well-balanced ingredients, and signature "juice" set it apart from the pack.

The wet produce was my only major complaint, and I definitely would not try to eat this drippy, messy sandwich in a car or on the go.

Subway and Jimmy John's also offered passable turkey sandwiches, and if I were in a pinch, I'd be fine with either. However, for a truly special, memorable sub, Jersey Mike's did it for me.

I had only eaten at the chain once before, and I will certainly be back after this.

When reached for comment, a Subway spokesperson provided the following statement:

"For over 60 years, Subway has been built on customization. While we offer standard builds, every freshly made sandwich can be tailored to a guest's preferences, from adding extra cheese and protein to swapping veggies and adjusting condiments. We celebrate our guests' individual tastes and encourage them to make each meal their own."

Business Insider reached out to Jersey Mike's and Jimmy John's for comment.

Read the original article on Business Insider

A processed-foods researcher and mom of 2 says there are 2 additives on labels she avoids at all costs

18 October 2026 at 09:37
Side-by-side portrait of a blond-haired person and close-up of a bowl filled with colorful gummy candies.
Elizabeth Dunford studies food additives and their impact on health.

Elizabeth Dunford/ Getty Images

  • Ultra-processed foods are everywhere, but some additives are worse than others.
  • Elizabeth Dunford is a nutrition epidemiologist who studies additives and health issues.
  • She avoids two types of additives when she sees them on a food label.

Elizabeth Dunford isn't trying to make grocery shopping an impossible task.

Dunford is a nutrition epidemiologist who studies additives in ultra-processed foods and their impact on health.

It's not realistic to avoid packaged foods altogether, Dunford, who is based at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, told Business Insider. They make up around 70% of the US food supply.

So, she focuses on buying foods for her family that have a low "additive load" overall.

"I try and avoid things in general that have a lot of additives, but you can't avoid everything," said Dunford, who is a mom of two. "If you pick it up, you turn it over, and you don't recognize half the ingredients, it's probably not a good choice," she said.

She has taught her kids that eating enough vegetables, protein, and calcium will "keep their brains and bodies healthy," and that there's a time and a place for treats, but it's not good to have too many. "It is the everyday food and drink choices that really matter to me," Dunford said.

Ultra-processed foods contain ingredients you wouldn't find in a regular kitchen, like emulsifiers and thickening agents. They tend to be ultrapalatable, meaning they contain an irresistible combination of sugar, salt, and fat, and have long shelf lives. They can be anything from potato chips and soda to packaged bread and yogurt.

A diet high in this type of food has been linked to a higher risk of chronic diseases, including type two diabetes, cardiovascular disease, cancer, and depression.

While she finds it unrealistic to cut out all additives, Dunford shared the two additives that she won't buy.

Synthetic dyes

Green tortilla wrap with visible filling rests on a wooden cutting board.
Synthetic dyes are used in many different kinds of foods, not just junk food, Dunford said.

markcarper/Getty Images

Dunford avoids buying products that contain synthetic dyes for herself and her family. "I will allow it at a birthday party. That's about it. Day-to-day, they're not allowed in our house," she said.

The dyes, which are typically made from petroleum, are used to give food products colorful appearances. If you're looking out for them on a label, scan for a color and a number.

Dunford said that although the dyes are common in candy and junk foods, they can be used in anything from blueberry bagels to spinach wraps. Instead of avoiding any particular food, she checks labels to find a version without synthetic dyes.

"There are definitely enough alternatives out there that there is no need to buy products for my kids that contain synthetic dyes," she said.

Synthetic dyes are not proven to harm everyone who consumes them, but evidence suggests they can worsen hyperactivity or attention-related behavior in children who are sensitive to them. Dunford said her son is on the ADHD spectrum, and that she would notice a difference in his behavior when he had brightly colored foods.

"My son, like many kids his age on the ADHD spectrum, and I noticed he became horrible when he would have brightly colored foods," Dunford said.

In January 2025, the FDA banned Red Dye 3, a dye that gives foods like candy, frosting, and bacon a cherry red color, because it was linked to cancer in an animal study. It has not been found to cause cancer in humans, but has also been associated with behavioral issues in some children.

In April 2025, the FDA announced that it would be phasing out a number of other synthetic dyes, including Red 40, Green 3, Yellow 5, Yellow 6, Blue 1, and Blue 2.

Phosphate additives

A hand holds a straw above a glass filled with a dark beverage on a gray surface.
Soda typically contains phosphate additives.

Grace Cary/Getty Images

Dunford tries to avoid buying products with phosphate additives such as phosphoric acid, dicalcium phosphate, tricalcium phosphate, disodium phosphate, sodium phosphate, and lecithin.

Studies suggest that phosphate-based additives are present in up to 56% of packaged foods in the US and that they raise blood phosphate levels more than the phosphate that naturally occurs in foods such as meat, seafood, and dairy. Soda, processed meats, and fast food all commonly contain phosphate additives, but they can also be used in everyday staples like yogurt and bread.

Dunford won't buy major culprits like soda at all, but for other products like yogurt, she makes sure to find versions without them.

"Children are getting really highly exposed to these additives and they can really cause a lot of problems with bone health, with kidney health," Dunford said.

The body needs phosphate, which is a mineral, for healthy bones, teeth, cells, and energy production. But too much phosphate in the blood can be harmful, especially for people with chronic kidney disease, whose kidneys are less able to remove excess phosphate.

Calcium and phosphate are both used to build bones, and the kidneys help keep their levels balanced in the bloodstream. When phosphate builds up, it can disrupt this balance and trigger hormonal changes, including higher levels of parathyroid hormone, a hormone that regulates calcium in the blood. Over time, this can cause calcium to be released from bones, weakening them.

Although studies suggest that phosphate additives can temporarily affect the phosphate-calcium balance in healthy people, more research is needed to understand if these ingredients can cause health issues over time. Regardless, Dunford prefers to err on the side of caution.

"You're not going to get it perfect. It's okay, but just take that extra step, look at the label," Dunford said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
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