El Niño Food-Supply Warning: UK weather agencies and ministers are urging households to stock up as El Niño is forecast to bring wetter, stormier conditions and disruption that could ripple into UK food availability and prices. Hard-Water Myth-Busting: A consumer health explainer questions whether hard water truly damages hair, noting mineral build-up may affect feel and appearance more than proven harm. Retail & Eating Out Moves: Aldi confirms new store openings in September, while Whitbread is closing Beefeater and Brewers Fayre sites this week as it pivots to an integrated food-and-beverage model. Packaging Policy Update: Andy Burnham’s government confirms a delayed bottle deposit return scheme for 2027, with coverage for certain PET, steel and aluminium containers (glass excluded initially). Influencer Advertising Rules (NI): Northern Ireland restaurants are being warned about paying influencers for positive reviews, with the ASA saying paid-for praise must be treated as advertising. Food Safety Watch: Updates continue on the UK salmonella situation, with health chiefs urging people to check specific guidance. Community & Hospitality Pressure: Wales’ hospitality sector is calling for long-term investment beyond a summer boost as costs bite.