More salt in school lunch, less nutrition info on menus: Trump rolls back food rules

New agriculture secretary Sonny Perdue announced plans to give schools more flexibility in implementing nutrition standards set by the Obama administration. That includes delaying a mandate that would require schools to further cut sodium from the lunches they serve, and allowing them to serve some grains that aren't whole grains. Read more at NPR...

Durham startup Mati Energy raises $2.5M

Fresh funding from Duke Angel Network, IDEA Fund Partners and more will support the company as its builds up distribution and scales manufacturing. Mati makes energy drinks with tea, fruit juice and guayusa leaves that are sold at Whole Foods, Kroger and more. Read more at The Herald + Sun...

Crushing blow to soy processors as Chinese grow wary on GMO

Consumer backlash against GMOs in China is beginning to impact demand for soy oil, which accounts for more than one-third of cooking oils used in Chinese kitchens. Sales fell 1 percent last year, as replacements grow 2 to 6 percent. Read more at Successful Farming...

Chicago makes history with first vegetarian museum

A private donation of $90,000 allowed restaurant owner Kay Stepkin to create a traveling interactive exhibit focused on vegetarianism that's making the rounds in Chicago-area libraries. Read more at NWI Times...

Just Salad's war on plastic continues with a new paper bowl

The fast-food chain started by Nick Kenner in New York City 10 years ago has prioritized recycling and cutting down on waste from the start with its reusable bowl program. It will soon replace the disposable plastic bowls it gives to customers who don't want the reusable ones with paper-based bowls that decompose quickly. Read more at Modern Farmer...