Restaurant Inspections: Pennsylvania’s agriculture department published fresh risk-based checks, including a fail for Cocina La Hildalguense over improper cooling of rice/beans and a fail at Dutch Country Farm Market tied to time/temperature controls. Food Safety & Policy: A new U.S. debate is resurfacing around energy drinks and alcohol, with researchers arguing proposed restrictions lack a scientific basis and comparing blame to “shark attacks” being caused by ice cream sales. German Hospitality Fire: A historic Renaissance castle hotel in Wallhausen, Saxony-Anhalt, suffered a major roof fire; 124 firefighters responded and guests/staff evacuated safely, with the cause and damage estimate still unclear. Packaging & Shelf Life: Industry research forecasts strong growth for high-barrier packaging films through 2036, driven by food and beverage demand for longer shelf life and protection. Beer & Hospitality Jobs: Krush Brau Park (a German beer garden concept) is hiring hybrid kitchen/front-of-house staff, including a cook/cashier and a “bevertainer” for fest-style service. Travel & Drinks: A study highlights kava’s complex chemistry and the challenge of pinning down why only a small number of liver injuries have been reported.