Food Policy & Labels: California’s new standardized food date-labeling law kicks in, requiring “BEST if Used by”/“USE by” wording and banning consumer-facing “sell by” labels to cut confusion and waste. Public Health & Diet: A new review links artificial sweeteners to worse blood-sugar markers and insulin changes, challenging the idea they’re metabolically inert; another study ties both sugary and diet sodas to higher fatty liver risk. SNAP Rules: A U.S. court vacated USDA approval of five state SNAP pilot projects that restricted certain food and beverage purchases, saying USDA exceeded its authority. Holiday Food & Deals: Fourth of July promotions are rolling out nationwide with patriotic pricing and loyalty/app offers, while local heat-safety advisories urge people to hydrate and avoid alcohol and sugary drinks. Industry Moves: Bimbo Bakeries USA pledged to remove artificial colors, preservatives, and emulsifiers across its brands on a staged timeline; Pepper Lunch marks World Pepper Rice Day with a one-day Buy One, Get One Free offer. Retail & Consumer Trust: The Food Industry Association pushed back on a PIRG report criticizing supermarkets’ recall communication, highlighting a growing focus on how food recalls reach shoppers. Quick Hits: White Castle floated a Taylor Swift wedding “castle” joke; Slim Chickens closed a Midlands location; and Kentucky State Parks reported $1.1B in 2024 economic impact, including $127M in food and beverage spending.