Kendra Byrd

@thinink.bsky.social thank you for this summary!

Notes From Brasilia Reflections on the state of food systems

Excellent article - link below

"Imagine if governments/profit-driven companies around the world were to do the same: requiring contractors feeding patients, office workers, etc. to source their produce from local farmers who grow food in a way that’s better for nature/ human health/social justice?"

This is an excellent article on UPFs! I've heard criticisms that the category of UPFs is too broad to be useful...so it's nice to see the revered Marion Nestle call it a useful 'organizing principle!' But this research will go nowhere unless we make unprocessed foods easier to eat/more affordable.

Opinion | We Found a Work Around to Trump Defunding Science (Gift Article) When knowledge is threatened, don’t just mourn it. Build around it.

"When knowledge is threatened, don’t mourn it. Build around it. Not with rage but with the kind of resolve that moves through spreadsheets...shared documents, late nights... Because science is only as resilient as the people who refuse to let it die."

Inspiring!

www.nytimes.com/2025/04/22/o...

the single most un-american and anti-constitutional statement ever uttered by an american president

Quick effort by a group of USAID supporters to mobilize against the shutdown and takeover -- includes a rally in DC on Wednesday. Website here:

We know there’s been some confusing news recently, but we want to reassure you: WIC benefits are still available, and WIC offices remain open. Please continue using benefits, going to appointments, and accessing services as usual.

We’ll keep you updated as we learn more. 💙

Just submitted my abstracts (in the nick of time) for the IUNS/ICN conference! Lots of interesting topics from the nutrition and safety of dried fish to nutrient losses along the humanitarian value chain. Hope to be there in August and discuss all the things in person! @james-robinson.bsky.social

Kroger and Albertsons grocery megamerger halted by two courts Two rulings — in federal and state courts — make it increasingly likely that Kroger might abandon its $24.6 billion plan to buy Albertsons. The merger aimed to combine two of America's largest supermarket chains.

Have been watching this story closely so I was happy to hear this news this morning:

The grocery store chains tried to argue the merger would *lower* consumer prices; I'm glad the judges didn't buy that!

It's another disheartening example of how those who contribute the least to climate change are the most affected

Philippines: Three dead and dozens sick after eating sea turtle stew At least 32 people in the Philippines were admitted to hospital after consuming the endangered species.

Interesting (and very sad) aquatic foods story (case study?) that touches on many interesting topics: indigenous cultures and how cultural culinary practices clash with national bans, epidemiology, food safety, and potentially climate change? (because of the contaminated algae).