Today we’ll be talking about a scientific breakthrough that could make ice cream melt-resistant, a lawsuit filed against Chipotle Mexican Grill over its GMO-free claims, and more water woes in California.
Ice Cream That Doesn't Melt?
As the summer winds down, it's fair to assume that most of us have indulged in some ice cream during the warmer months of the year. And it is also likely that melting ice cream has caused it bit of a mess a time or two.
But could that be set to change?
Scottish researchers believe that a protein found in some Asian foods could eventually produce ice cream that melts much more slowly.
The scientists said that in addition to improving ice cream's texture on a hot day, the protein could allow for longer storage and require less energy to both make and transport the product.
A patent on the protein is pending and the researchers have published two papers on the process to date. They anticipate that ice cream with the protein included could reach grocery shelves in three to five years.
Chipotle Sued Over GMO-Free Claims
Chipotle Mexican Grill says it was the first national restaurant company to disclose genetically modified ingredients in its food, and also says it is the first to cook only with non-GMO ingredients.
But a lawsuit filed this week challenges the restaurant chain's GMO-free claims. The lawsuit filed in California alleges that the Chipotle's GMO-free marketing and advertising campaigns are deceptive and misleading to consumers.
According to a story posted on PRWeek, Chipotle communications director Chris Arnold called the lawsuit "meritless" and said the complaint against his company is filled with inaccuracies. Arnold told PRWeek that Chipotle "has always been honest and transparent with its customers" and that the company's messaging regarding the use of non-GMO ingredients "is no exception."
Water Woes in Calif.
As the historic drought continues in California, state regulators this week ordered a business to stop tapping Sierra Nevada water that is later bottled and sold, according to a report from the Associated Press.
Sugar Pine Spring Water also faces a fine of approximately 225 thousand dollars for collecting and trucking the water to commercial bottling companies for two years despite notices to stop, according to sanctions proposed by the California Water Resources Control Board.
A Water Resources Control Board enforcement manager told the AP this is the first such action taken this year against a water bottling business in connection with drought restrictions that restrict farmers and other users from water use.