Consumer News: Authors sue Meta alleging it used pirated books to train its AI systems

These chemicals are hiding in cookware, fabrics, cosmetics, and cleaning products

• PFAS, or forever chemicals, are linked to cancer, fertility issues, and weakened immune systems.
• These chemicals are hiding in cookware, fabrics, cosmetics, and cleaning products.
• Experts say small changes in what you buy and use can significantly reduce your risk.

What is it and does itmatter?

Youve probably heard of PFAS short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances nicknamed forever chemicals because they barely degrade in the environment. Once introduced, they persist in soil, water, and even human blood for decades.

Research shows that about 97% of Americans already carry PFAS in their bloodstream, according to national health surveys. These chemicals are linked to cancers, hormone disruption, developmental delays, and reduced fertility.

The bad news: PFAS are intentionally added to common consumer products everything from nonstick pans to waterproof mascara to make them resistant to water, oil, and heat.

The good news: You can reduce your exposure dramatically by changing a few purchasing habits. The non-profit PIRG, has some suggestions"

Step 1: Stop bringing PFAS into your home

You dont have to toss everything you own. The first step is simply avoiding new products treated with PFAS.
When shopping, watch for words like nonstick, stain-proof, grease-resistant, or waterproof. And check ingredient lists for terms such as PTFE, perfluoro, or polyfluoro all chemical cousins of PFAS.

Step 2: Go old-school with your cookware

That slick, easy-slide frying pan may use PFAS-based coatings like Teflon (PTFE). When scratched or overheated, they can release PFAS particles or fumes.
Safer options include stainless steel, carbon steel, or cast iron cookware. If youre still using nonstick pans, keep them at medium heat, use non-metal utensils, and replace them once the coating peels or flakes.

Step 3: Watch your baking paper

Many baking papers and fast-food wrappers are treated with PFAS to resist grease. Choose uncoated parchment labeled PFAS-free, or reusable silicone baking mats instead they last for years and eliminate waste.

Step 4: Skip stain-resistant tablecloths

Easy-clean or spill-proof tablecloths often have PFAS coatings. Washable cotton or linen tablecloths or cork placemats are safer and more sustainable.

Step 5: Be wary of cleaning sprays

Some household cleaners use fluorinated ingredients. Look for Green Seal or Safer Choice labels, which exclude PFAS.
For most messes, soap, water, and a little vinegar or baking soda work just as well. (Never mix vinegar and hydrogen peroxide the combo can release harmful fumes.)

Step 6: Check your raincoat

Outdoor jackets and rain gear often use PFAS-based durable water repellents. Many brands now offer PFAS-free shells look for labels that say so when you shop or re-treat your coat.

Step 7: Look at your dental floss and makeup

PFAS are sometimes used to make dental floss slick or mascara waterproof. Researchers found PFAS in nearly three-quarters of waterproof mascaras tested.

Check labels for PTFE or fluoro- ingredients, and opt for PFAS-free floss and cosmetics. Plant-based or silk floss, refillable glass containers, and natural mascaras are safer choices.

Step 8: Lipstick can be a hidden source

Some lipsticks use PFAS for shine and staying power but that means you could be ingesting them throughout the day. Avoid products with perfluoro or polyfluoro ingredients, and choose PFAS-free cosmetics instead.

Why cutting PFAS matters

PFAS isfound in food, air, dust, and drinking water. Even small daily exposures can add up over time. Reducing PFAS in your home means less of these chemicals in landfills, waterways, and ultimately, human bodies.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates at least 158 million Americans currently have PFAS in their tap water. While individual steps help, larger regulatory action is critical.

Environmental groups are urging Congress to support the PFAS National Drinking Water Standard Act, which would make EPAs limits on six common PFAS legally binding.

How to protect your family from PFAS

Small switches, big difference

• Cookware: Replace nonstick pans with stainless, carbon steel, or cast iron.

• Food contact: Use PFAS-free parchment or silicone mats.

• Cleaning: Choose Safer Choice or Green Seal certified products.

• Clothing: Opt for PFAS-free outdoor gear.

• Cosmetics: Avoid waterproof or longwear formulas with PTFE or fluoro- ingredients.

Quick checklist: What to do right now

Audit your kitchen and bathroom.
Check cookware, floss, cosmetics, and cleaning products for PFAS-related terms.

Buy PFAS-free when you replace items.
You dont need to purge just make safer choices going forward.

Filter your drinking water.
Activated carbon and reverse osmosis systems can reduce PFAS.

Support regulation.
Urge your representatives to back the PFAS National Drinking Water Standard Act.

liera Companies and Trinity Ministries misrepresented their plans, the state charged

Consumers sue the maker of On shoes, saying they're too noisy

A new class action lawsuit claims that a popular line of sneakers leaves consumers walking in embarrassment and manufacturers refusing to take responsibility for an annoying design flaw.

The complaint, filed this week in federal court in California, accuses On, the Swiss athletic footwear company, of selling running shoes that produce persistent squeaks after minimal wear. The plaintiffs allege that despite the companys premium pricing often exceeding $150 per pair On has failed to correct the issue or offer refunds, according to a USA Today report.

According to the suit, the squeaking stems from moisture trapped between the shoes foam and rubber components, a defect that customers say cant be fixed with normal cleaning or drying. It sounds like youre walking on wet gym floors, even when youre not, one plaintiff told attorneys, who are seeking class certification for thousands of U.S. consumers.

The case highlights growing frustration with athletic footwear brands that tout innovation but leave quality complaints unresolved. Social media posts and product reviews have described the same problem for months, with some buyers joking that their On shoes announce every step.

The lawsuit seeks damages, restitution, and injunctive relief requiring On to repair or replace defective shoes and to disclose the potential for squeaking in future marketing. The company has not yet filed a response.

On, founded in Zurich in 2010 and partially backed by tennis star Roger Federer, has become one of the fastest-growing names in sports footwear. Its Cloud line of running shoes has been especially popular with runners and fitness enthusiasts though, according to the lawsuit, not everyone is happy with the soundtrack.

Price-match like a pro using the stores you already shop

• Scan, show, save: Use the Walmart apps barcode scanner to find the exact item and price, then flash the product page at checkoutmost stores will match on the spot if its the identical item and in stock.
• Know the fine print: Matches dont apply to Marketplace sellers, clearance/doorbusters, or open-box. Many retailers give a post-purchase window (730 days) to claim a matchuse it.
• Sometimes you can do better than a match: A couplestores beat Walmart (e.g., Academy Sports -5%; Cabelas CLUB -5%). Check whether the store offers phone/chat matches for online buys so you dont have to drive.

Want Walmarts low price without stepping inside Walmart? Plenty of major retailers will price-match the retail giant, you just have to know the rules. I break down exactly how each stores price match policy works, plus quick tips so you can flash a lower price and get the deal on the spot. Shop where you like, pay the Walmart price.

3 tips for your success

Before we dig into the retailers that made my list, lets talk about some keys to your success when trying to get a Walmart price match.

1. Download the Walmart app - When looking for price matching opportunities, using the Walmart app is a must as it gives you access to a barcode scanner where you can scan any product to see if Walmart stocks the item and for what price. Then you can simply show your phone screen at checkout and get the lower price.
2. 3^rd Party sellers on Walmart are a no-no- None of the stores listed below will accept a price match from a Walmart Marketplace seller. The item must be sold and shipped directly by Walmart.
3. Screenshot the proof - Before you head to the register or customer service, grab a clear screenshot of the Walmart product page showing the price, Sold & shipped by Walmart, identical model/SKU, and in-stock status. Your phone's networkcan stall right when you need it and a saved screenshot is usually accepted as proof.

Academy Sports

Academy Sports will not only price match Walmart, but theyll beat their price by 5% which is pretty incredible. Theyre the only store on this list that will actually beat the Walmart price without a special membership.

The item needs to be in-stock at both stores and it must be identical, right down to the model, size, color, and SKU. Keep in mind that they will not price-match Walmart clearance or closeout items, misprinted prices, or special promos like coupons or rebates.

Academy asks you to either bring in a printed Walmart ad showing the lower price, or have the product page displayed on your smartphone from the Walmart website. You can approach any store associate and tell them youd like to get a price-match and theyll walk you through the process.

Also, the price-match does not have to be at the time of purchase. They give you 14 days to bring back your receipt if you notice the Walmart price drop below the Academy price.

Bed Bath & Beyond

As of August 2025, Bed Bath & Beyond has reemerged from bankruptcy and is starting to slowly reopen stores once again and has a strong online presence.

As of right now, they will only price-match items sold on their website and they give you sevendays after your purchase to make it happen. Items must be identical at both stores and not clearance or limited-time sale items at Walmart.

You just log into your BB&B account, go to My Orders and look for the wording "Eligible for Price Match" link next to the item. Click on the link and it will open a request form, complete the form and submit it.

BB&B asks for 1-2 business days to investigate your price match request and approve it.

Best Buy

Best Buy will absolutely price match a lower price found at Walmart but it must be at the time of sale. Once you buy something, you cant come back later to request a price match.

Again, the item must be identical and in-stock at both stores, and it cant be a clearance, refurbished, or open-box product.

Best Buy and Walmart have a fairly broad overlap of brands that they both sell, providing shoppers a good chance of finding a lower price. Top brands include Samsung, Apple, Sony, LG, TCL, Hisense, Vizio, Bose, Beats, JBL, Ninja, Keurig, and KitchenAid to name a few.

When you find a lower price at Walmart, just take your smartphone or print ad to the checkout line and an employee will hook you up with a price match.

Cabelas

When shopping for hunting, fishing, and outdoor gear, keep in mind that Cabelas will price-match Walmart. The product must be in-stock, identical, and you must request the price-match at the time of purchase.

For an in-store price match, just show evidence of the lower price via your phone or print ad to any associate and theyll verify the price. According to their policy, there must be a Walmart location within 100 miles of the Cabelas store youre standing in when you request the match.

For an online price match, they ask that you call them (before you make the purchase) at 1-800-227-7776 and theyll hook you up.

If youre a Cabelas CLUB member (requires you to get their credit card) theyll actually beat the Walmart price by 5%.

Also, its worth noting that Cabelas and Bass Pro Shops is owned by the same company, Great Outdoors Group, and this exact price match policy extends to Bass Pro Shops.

Dicks Sporting Goods

Walmart and Dicks Sporting Goods have quite a few brands and products in common, presenting some great price-match opportunities.

Brands to consider include Adidas, Callaway, Coleman, Columbia, Everlast, Puma, Rawlings, Skechers, Spalding, Under Armour, Wilson, and YETI.

Dicks gives you a generous 14 days after your purchase to request a Walmart price match. As long as the item is identical at both places, down to the brand, model number, color, size, and weight, youre good to go.

When you reach checkout, show evidence on your phone of the lower price and theyll quickly verify it.

The Home Depot

The Home Depot will price match both Walmarts in-store and online pricing, and you have 30 days from date of purchase to make it happen.

As long as the product is identical and in-stock at both Walmart and The Home Depot, you just have to show evidence of the lower price via your phone (or a print ad) to any cashier.

For an online price match, you can ether start a live chat or call them directly at 1-800-430-3376. Make sure you have the products SKU or Internet # from Home Depot.com. Theyll also want the SKU or item number from Walmart so they can quickly look up the item and verify the price.

Kohls

While Kohls does sell many brands that you wont find at Walmart, theres some crossover when shopping for shoes, small kitchen appliances, and electronics.

So, if you find a lower price on something at Walmart or Walmart.com, they will price-match it in-store if its identical. Also, it cant be a clearance or rollback price at Walmart or theyll balk at it.

You dont have to request the price-match at the time of purchase, but you do need to request it before the store closes on the day of purchase. If you try and get the price-match on the following day it will be denied.

Also, if you bought something from Kohls.com and notice a lower price at Walmart (either online or in-store), just take your online order confirmation to your local Kohls, on the day of purchase, and theyll give you a price match.

Lowes

Lowes calls it their Lowest Price Guarantee and similar to Home Depot, they give you 30 days to request a price-match.

They wont price-match Walmart products that are on clearance or closeout, or part of a special promotion, but pretty much everything else is fair game.

To get an in-store price-match, they ask specifically for an advertisement, printout, photo, or the product page from the Walmart website. A screenshot of the Walmart site should work since theyre okay with a photo.

If you want a price match on an online Lowes purchase, youll need to start a live chat or give them a call at 1-877-465-6937. Theyll ask for the specifics of the product, along with the Walmart item number, at which point theyll verify the price and give you the price match.

Michaels

If you notice a lower price at Walmart, or on their website, the folks at Michaels give you up to 7 days after your purchase to get a price-match. Its the same deal, item must be identical, in-stock at both stores, and not on clearance or liquidation.

For an in-store price-match, they ask you to bring the Walmart ad, printout, or photo to any register for validation. You can also just have the product page on Walmart.com pulled up on your phone.

For an online price-match, youll need to call them at 1-800-642-4235 to make it happen. Keep in mind that you cannot get an online price match by visiting a Michaels store, you have to call the number.

Michaels is famous for its coupons, but you cant use one on a price-match. Its one discount or the other, not both. So do the quick math and figure out which one saves you the most money.

Office Depot/Office Max

You have 14 days to request a price-match at Office Depot/Max, or you can do it at the time of purchase. Again, the item must be in-stock, identical, and not on closeout or clearance.

Interestingly, they will also price-match service plans and computer services. So, if you buy a wireless service plan and Walmart has it cheaper, theyll match that price as long as the plan, provider, and terms are identical.

When requesting a price-match in-store, any cashier can help you. Just show evidence of the Walmart price via your phone, a picture of in-store signage, or a printed ad.

An online price-match will require you to start a live chat or youll have to call them at 1-800-463-3768.

PetSmart

Interestingly, PetSmart will price-match Walmart, but Petco will not.

As long as the item is in-stock, not on clearance, and identical at both Walmart and PetSmart, you can request a price-match at the time of purchase or within 14 days.

Its good for both in-store and online purchases. For in-store purchases, just approach any cashier with proof of the lower price on your phone, or via a print ad or receipt, and theyll hook you up with the lower price.

For online purchases, your best bet is going to be calling them at 1-888-839-9638 as they dont currently have a live chat feature on their website.

Pet food brands that both retailers have in common, and thus provide a great price match opportunity, include IAMS, Purina, Blue Buffalo, Greenies, Natures Recipe, Beneful, Friskies, and Hills Science Diet.

Staples

When buying office supplies and technology, keep in mind that Staples will price-match Walmart pricing. And theyll do it at the time of purchase or up to 14 days after, but only on in-store purchases.

Just bring proof via a Walmart ad, receipt, or clear screenshot and theyll verify the lower price and adjust.

Their list of exclusions is pretty standard and includes closeouts/clearance, out-of-stock items, holiday doorbusters, and gift cards.

Tractor Supply

Tractor Supply will price-match Walmart at the time of your purchase and up to a generous 30 days after. Works on both in-store and online prices.

Same rules as the other stores. Wont work on clearance items, special orders, services, out-of-stocks, and items that arent identical.

Just show evidence of the lower Walmart price to a cashier for in-store purchases, or call them at 1-877-718-6750 for online purchases.

Youd be surprised how many brands Tractor Supply and Walmart have in common. A few of the bigger names include Carhartt, Wrangler, Blackstone, Coleman, Rubbermaid, Purina, Blue Buffalo, and Scotts Miracle-Gro. These all provide great price-matching opportunities for savvy shoppers.

OshKosh tries for a revival, Apple TV and Peacock tie up a bundle

OshKosh reissues old favorites

For generations, families have grown up in OshKosh Bgosh, the brand synonymous with childhood denim. Today, Carters, Inc., announces the debut of The OshKosh Reissued Collection, a new, ongoing product collection will feature and reintroduce a limited selection of the brands most iconic styles from the vault, refreshed for todays families and released in limited capsules across select seasons.

The first capsule launches this holiday season, and features archival prints, heritage silhouettes, and the return of the Josh Bgosh, the beloved hickory-clad bear first introduced in 1998 as the brands spokesbear. Designed for babies through toddlers (up to 5T), these reimagined favorites marry nostalgia with modern fabrics, colors, and fits to create new memories while honoring timeless ones.

Founded in 1895, OshKosh Bgosh has defined American childhood denim for more than a century. Dubbed The Worlds Best Overall Company in the 1960s, OshKosh became a cultural staple of childhood, with denim pieces worn by kids across generations. With its vintage prints and retro fits, The OshKosh Reissued Collection merges iconic design, soft fabrics, and playful character to deliver holiday-ready styles made for gifting, celebrating, and memory-making.

Apple TV - Peacock Bundle

Apple and NBCUniversal today announced the launch of the Apple TV and Peacock Bundle, available beginning October 20. The first-of-its-kind bundle offers the services complementary array of award-winning originals, marquee live events and sports, beloved franchises, and blockbuster movies, including Ted Lasso, Severance, The Paper, The Traitors, How to Train Your Dragon, the NBA (tipping off October 21 on Peacock), F1 The Movie (coming later this year), and much more, all through one convenient monthly subscription.

Customers in the U.S. can save over 30 percent by subscribing to the Apple TV and Peacock Premium bundle for $14.99 per month, or Apple TV and Peacock Premium Plus for $19.99 per month, through either app or website.1 Apple One subscribers on the Family and Premier plans can subscribe to Peacock Premium Plus and receive a 35 percent discount the first benefit of its kind for Apples all-in-one subscription bundle.