Impossible Burger’s ‘secret sauce’ highlights challenges of food tech

The very ingredient that has generated so much buzz among investors and restaurants for the Impossible Burger—soy leghemoglobin produced by a genetically engineered yeast—has raised some regulatory concerns. The FDA hasn’t concluded that it’s unsafe to eat, but in internal memos, agency officials expressed concern that it’s never been eaten by humans and may be an allergen. Read more at The New York Times…

Sprouts is the only ‘likely takeout candidate’ left among grocers, JPMorgan says

Several large grocers have seen their stocks take a beating since Amazon made a bid for Whole Foods—take Kroger and Supervalu, for example. Sprouts, meanwhile, has seen its shares rise 24 percent since the start of the year and continues to report strong quarterly earnings. JPMorgan analysts say it’s the most likely takeover candidate of all publicly traded grocers because of its unique business model. Read more at CNBC…

Organic favorites Lucky’s Market opening four stores in Central Florida

The Boulder-based natural and organic grocery chain is set to open four stores in Central Florida and is reportedly looking at four more Florida locations. Read more at Southeast Produce Weekly…

How one millennial mom built a business that benefits India’s orphans

Colored Organics LLC, founded by Amanda Barthelemy, develops clothing made from organic cotton and donates half of profits to help build orphanages in India. Read more at Forbes…

FDA allows macadamia nut health claim: will they use this?

In response to a petition filed by Royal Hawaiian Macadamia Nut Inc., the FDA has said it will allow a qualified health claim stating that “supporting but not conclusive research” has found that macadamia nuts, “as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol … may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.” Read more at Food Politics…