Author: OMN AI

Researchers say ultra-processed foods resemble cigarettes more than real food and need tougher regulation.A report from Harvard University, University of Michigan, and Duke University found UPFs are engineered to drive addiction and overconsumption.The study links UPFs to widespread health harms and compares industry tactics to historic tobacco practices.Authors warn marketing claims like “low fat” can delay regulation, similar to filtered cigarette advertising.They urge measures such as marketing restrictions and stronger industry accountability.Some experts caution against direct comparisons but agree UPFs pose serious public health risks.

SpaceX Surpasses Expectations as Tesla Faces Pressure Elon Musk’s SpaceX, now merged with his artificial intelligence venture xAI, has reached a $1.25 trillion (€1.06tn) valuation, narrowing the gap with Tesla, which is valued at around $1.58 trillion (€1.34tn). On paper, Musk now generates more wealth from SpaceX than from his electric car company. Tesla’s stock has slipped about 6% in early 2026 following a 16% decline in vehicle deliveries in January and a 3% drop in 2025 revenue — the first annual decline in the company’s history. Competition in China and Europe, combined with the end of U.S. EV tax…

Italy has been named the happiest destination for U.S. travelers in 2026, according to a new report. The findings show strong interest and satisfaction among Americans planning trips abroad. Travelers cited Italy’s rich history, cultural attractions, and scenic landscapes as major reasons for their choice. From Rome’s ancient ruins to Venice’s canals and Tuscany’s countryside, Italy offers a variety of experiences that appeal to different types of visitors. The report highlights that U.S. tourists are increasingly seeking destinations that combine cultural experiences with relaxation and adventure. Italy’s blend of art, cuisine, and natural beauty appears to meet these expectations, making…

Netflix faced renewed pressure in Washington over its $82bn (£61bn) plan to buy Warner Bros Discovery. Lawmakers questioned whether the merger would help consumers or workers. Senators from both parties expressed deep scepticism during an antitrust hearing. Senators warn of weaker competition and higher prices Members of the Senate antitrust subcommittee raised concerns about shrinking competition in entertainment markets. Several senators warned consumers could face higher subscription prices. Others questioned how cinemas would survive after the merger. The Department of Justice is reviewing the proposed transaction. Approval would hand Netflix control of Warner Bros film and television studios. The deal…

Toto Wolff dismissed rival claims about engine legality and urged teams to focus on themselves.He said Mercedes operates fully within the regulations.Rivals questioned whether Mercedes and Red Bull Racing gained an advantage through thermal expansion.Other manufacturers raised concerns with the FIA before testing.Wolff said rivals missed an opportunity and searched for excuses.He did not rule out protests after the Australian Grand Prix.

China has banned hidden door handles on electric vehicles over safety concerns. The move makes China the first country to outlaw the design. Regulators acted amid rising scrutiny of electric vehicle safety worldwide. Several deadly incidents raised alarm among authorities. Two fatal crashes in China involved electric cars produced by Xiaomi. Investigators suspected power failures stopped passengers from opening the doors. Regulators Demand Reliable Emergency Access The new regulations permit sales only for cars with mechanical door releases inside and outside. State media outlined the requirements in detail. Officials want to guarantee access during accidents and power failures. Regulators aim…

Researchers at the University of Sydney have created cosmic dust in a laboratory.PhD candidate Linda Losurdo produced the dust to study how life’s building blocks formed.Cosmic dust carries organic molecules essential for life.Scientists debate whether these molecules formed on Earth or arrived via meteorites.Losurdo recreated space conditions using vacuum chambers and energized gas mixtures.The process formed plasma that condensed into dust-like particles.The dust mimics material released by dying stars.Researchers compared its infrared signature with real cosmic samples.The work may explain why meteorites contain organic matter.The findings appeared in the Astrophysical Journal.

Tariff Reductions and Trade Promises President Donald Trump said Monday that tariffs on Indian goods would drop from 25% to 18% after Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi reportedly agreed to curb purchases of Russian oil. Trump added that India would reduce import taxes on U.S. goods to zero and commit to buying $500 billion in American products. Trump framed the deal as a step toward ending the war in Ukraine, claiming that cutting Russia’s oil revenue could help stop the conflict. Modi called the tariff reduction “delightful” and praised Trump’s leadership on X, highlighting a “wonderful” phone call, though he…

Gold and silver prices fell sharply as investors accelerated an exit from once-popular safe-haven assets. The downturn extended losses from Friday and marked a decisive break from January’s record-setting rally. Markets shifted focus toward a stronger dollar and easing policy fears. During Asian trading on Monday, spot gold dropped more than nine percent to roughly $4,403 per ounce. Silver slid about 15 percent to below $72 per ounce. Both metals had surged earlier this year amid heightened geopolitical tension. Market confidence returns after US policy signal Investors previously piled into precious metals to hedge against political and economic risk. Doubts…

The Chartered Institute of Procurement and Supply warned that soaring shipping costs could push up prices for consumer goods this year.CIPS said cracks are forming in global supply chains, hitting computers, electrical machinery, and transport equipment.A late-2025 survey showed supply chain disruption fears at a two-year high.Shipping and logistics saw the steepest rises, with 22% reporting costs up more than 10%.Computer and electronics prices have already climbed, with brands raising prices by about 15%.Spot shipping rates between Asia and the US jumped nearly 30% in weeks.CIPS said volatility now looks permanent, driven by tariffs, geopolitics, and tensions involving Donald Trump.