Consumer News: The cheapest places Americans can travel in 2026 — without sacrificing the fun

Plastic pollution is real, but health impacts inside the body remain uncertain, scientists say

• Researchers say some widely reported findings of microplastics in human organs may be false positives

• Critics warn rushed methods and weak controls could mislead policymakers and the public

• Scientists stress plastic pollution is real, but health impacts inside the body remain uncertain

Scientists are raising serious doubts about a wave of high-profile studies claiming to have found microplastics throughout the human body, warning that many results may be driven by contamination, flawed methods or false positives rather than real plastic particles.

The studies, which reported microplastics and nanoplastics in organs including the brain, blood, testes, arteries and placentas, were widely covered by global media, including the Guardian. But multiple researchers now say the evidence behind some of the most striking claims is far less solid than it appeared.

There is no doubt that plastic pollution is everywhere in the environment, scientists say. But what we actually know about how much plastic ends up inside the human body and what it does there is still very limited.

Race to publish raises concerns

Micro- and nanoplastics are extremely small, often near the detection limits of current analytical tools, especially when scientists are working with complex human tissue.

Researchers told the Guardian that while there is no suggestion of misconduct, the rapid expansion of microplastics research has led to mistakes. In some cases, teams with limited analytical chemistry experience may have rushed to publish results without applying basic quality controls.

The Guardian identified seven studies that have been formally challenged in scientific journals. A separate recent analysis flagged 18 studies that did not properly consider that human tissue itself can generate chemical signals that mimic common plastics.

Scientists warn that faulty evidence could have real-world consequences. Poor-quality studies could lead to misguided regulations or allow industry lobbyists to dismiss legitimate concerns by pointing to unreliable data.

Brain study sparks backlash

One of the most prominent disputed studies reported rising levels of microplastics in human brain tissue over several decades, based on postmortem samples. The findings generated global headlines.

But months later, other scientists published a formal critique, citing weak contamination controls and missing validation steps. One of the critics, Dr Duan Materi of Germanys Helmholtz Centre for Environmental Research, was blunt.

The brain microplastic paper is a joke, he said, noting that brain tissue is around 60% fat and that fat can create false signals for polyethylene, a common plastic. He suggested rising obesity rates could explain the apparent trend.

The studys lead author, Prof Matthew Campen, defended the work, saying the field is still young and that researchers are learning as they go. He acknowledged room for improvement but said critics have not produced data proving the findings are wrong.

Other studies also challenged

The brain paper is not an isolated case. A study linking microplastics in artery plaques to higher risks of heart attack and stroke was criticised for failing to test blank samples to measure background contamination.

Another study reporting microplastics in human testes was challenged by scientists who said the methods were not robust enough to support the conclusions. Campen, a co-author, responded that bioanalytical assays are never perfect and must improve over time.

Studies claiming plastic particles in blood, arteries and bottled water have also faced criticism, though authors have disputed those challenges.

Roger Kuhlman, a chemist formerly at Dow Chemical, called the growing doubts a bombshell.

This is forcing us to re-evaluate almost everything we think we know about microplastics in the body, he said. Many extraordinary claims are being made without ordinary levels of evidence.

Methods under scrutiny

A key source of concern is a technique called pyrolysis gas chromatography mass spectrometry, or Py-GC-MS, which involves vaporising samples and analysing the fumes.

Critics say chemicals released from fats and other biological material can be mistaken for plastics, especially if tissue digestion is incomplete. A January 2025 study concluded the method is currently unreliable for detecting some common plastics in human samples.

Dr Cassandra Rauert, an environmental chemist at the University of Queensland, said many reported concentrations are completely unrealistic and biologically implausible.

She added that while nano-sized plastic particles might cross biological barriers, current instruments cannot reliably detect them making some bold claims even harder to justify.

A July review in a German medical journal summed up the problem: At present, there is hardly any reliable information available on the actual distribution of microplastics in the body.

Undeclared ingredients in the product may pose serious health risks

• The FDA has recalled Modern Warrior Ready after finding undisclosed ingredients that could pose serious health risks.

• The supplement contained hidden stimulants and drug-like substances that were not listed on the label.

• Consumers are urged to stop using the product immediately and check FDA recall alerts before taking supplements.

Federal health officials issued a major recall affecting a widely sold dietary supplement called Modern Warrior Ready.

What started as routine testing revealed that this product contained several powerful substances that were not listed on the label and some of them may put your health at risk. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has now pulled all lots of the product from sale and is urging anyone who bought it to stop taking it immediately.

What happened and why it matters

Modern Warrior, a company based in Phoenix, voluntarily recalled Modern Warrior Ready after regulatory analysis found undeclared ingredients in the 60-capsule bottles sold online. The product was marketed to boost metabolism, support mental clarity, and help reduce cravings, but the label didnt tell buyers about everything inside.

Heres what the FDA found inside the capsules:

• Tianeptine a substance not approved for use in dietary supplements in the U.S. and associated with serious side effects, including confusion, drowsiness, and even suicidal thoughts or behavior in people under 25. Overdose risks include seizures and trouble breathing, especially if mixed with alcohol or certain antidepressants.

• 1,4-DMAA (dimethylamylamine) a stimulant that can raise blood pressure and has been linked to cardiovascular problems like heart attacks and chest tightness.

• Aniracetam a nootropic compound thought to affect brain function; while used in some countries, its not approved for supplement use in the U.S. and was not disclosed on the label.

All of the recalled bottles were sold nationwide online between April 2022 and December 8, 2025, and the company has stopped distribution and pulled remaining stock to prevent further sales.

What consumers should do now

If you have any bottles of Modern Warrior Ready at home, stop using them immediately even if you feel fine. Because some of the ingredients can have serious cardiovascular or neurological effects, its better not to take any risks.

Here are some tips to protect yourself with supplements:

1. Check official sources first. Before trying a new supplement, look up the product on the FDAs recall database or trusted health sites to see if any safety alerts exist.

2. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist. If a product promises big results, especially for things like weight loss or brain boosts, ask a health professional if its safe for you.

3. Watch for red flags. Undeclared or unfamiliar ingredients especially stimulants or drugs not approved as supplements are a warning sign that the product might not be trustworthy.

Supplements can seem harmless, but when hidden chemicals are involved, the risks can be serious. Staying informed and cautious helps keep you and your health safe.

Plus some clever tips to save money at ALDI

• ALDI is adding 180+ stores in 2026, expanding into new states like Colorado and Maine while growing fast in major metros.

• More ALDI means stronger price competition, which often helps keep grocery prices lower across an entire area.

• Save more at ALDI: shop mid-week for better selection, watch for yellow-sticker markdowns, and plan meals around ALDI Finds.

ALDI is ramping up its growth in a major way in 2026, and budget-conscious shoppers are going to like the expansion. As the discount grocery chain marks its 50th year in the U.S., it announced plans to open more than 180 new stores across 31 states this year, pushing its total U.S. store count to nearly 2,800 locations by the end of 2026.

The expansion is part of ALDIs goal to reach about 3,200 stores by 2028, supported by a $9 billion investment in new locations, remodels, and supply-chain infrastructure.

Where ALDI is opening new stores in 2026

ALDIs growth plan focuses on both entering new states and strengthening its presence in fast-growing metro areas.

New Markets:

Colorado: ALDI is entering the state for the first time, with stores planned in Denver and Colorado Springs. The company expects to open up to 50 locations across the state over the next several years.

Maine: ALDI will open stores in the Portland area, making Maine the 40^th state that theyve opened a location in.

Major Expansion Areas:

Phoenix, Arizona: Look for around 10 new stores to open in 2026, with additional growth planned all the way through 2030.

Las Vegas, Nevada: After very successfully entering the market in 2025, ALDI plans to double its store count in the Las Vegas area by 2030.

Southeast and South: ALDI will continue converting former Southeastern Grocers locations, including Winn-Dixie and Harveys stores. Nearly 80 store conversions are planned in 2026 alone.

To support the rapid growth, ALDI is also opening three new distribution centers in Baldwin, Florida; Goodyear, Arizona; and Aurora, Colorado, helping keep shelves stocked while controlling costs.

Shoppers can track specific upcoming openings and grand-opening announcements through ALDIs store locator and grand opening listings.

Why ALDIs expansion matters to shoppers

ALDIs aggressive growth comes at the perfect time when grocery prices remain high and are felt by families on a budget every time they hit the checkout aisle.

The major side-effect of discount grocerslike ALDI coming into your neighborhood is that they put pressure on traditional supermarkets to find ways to not raise prices. This can definitely help slow price increases in local markets.

In regions where ALDI is entering for the first time, shoppers often see more affordable options for staples like produce, dairy, meat, and pantry items. In some cases, the presence of ALDI has also pushed nearby grocery chains to run deeper promotions or improve their private-label offerings.

For communities with limited access to affordable food retailers, ALDIs arrival can meaningfully expand grocery options.

Benefits of shopping at ALDI

Lower everyday prices:

ALDI focuses on efficiency, smaller stores, limited product selection, and minimal overhead. Those savings are passed directly to shoppers.

Strong private-label quality:

Most items sold at ALDI are private brands, many of which are independently tested and designed to compete directly with national brands at lower prices.

Faster shopping trips:

Smaller store layouts and a streamlined checkout process make ALDI a popular choice for shoppers who want to get in and out quickly.

Limited-time ALDI Finds:

Each week, ALDI rotates special buys that include food, household items, and seasonal products. These limited-run items are often priced well below similar products at other retailers.

Delivery and pickup options:

ALDI continues expanding curbside pickup and delivery through partners such as Instacart, DoorDash, and Uber Eats, making it easier for shoppers to access low prices without going into the store.

How to save even more money at ALDI

ALDI is already low-priced, but smart shoppers can stretch their budgets further with a few simple strategies.

Use their "Twice as Nice" guarantee:

ALDI has a guarantee they call "Twice as Nice."If you're ever not 100% satisfied with a product, you can bring it back and they'll not only replace it, but they'll give you all of your money back. Just bring back your receipt and the product packaging as proof.

The only things the guarantee doesnt cover are non-food items and alcohol.

Check for markdown deals on perishables:

One of the easiest ways to save at ALDI is to scout for items that are nearing their sell-by dates and plan meals around whats on sale. Stores frequently discount fresh meat, dairy, bread, and produce with yellow or red stickers to move them quickly.

Shop around weekly specials and ALDI Finds:

ALDI has a weekly specials section called ALDI Finds thats packed full of deeply discounted food and household items, including homer dcor, apparel, and pet supplies. These items are found in ALDIs Middle Aisle and theyre limited-time (often seasonal) products sold at a big discount.

Theyre great for party planning, small gift ideas, and check ways to restock your pantry and kitchen.

Time your visit strategically:

While it seems obvious, most shoppers ignore this tip and then complain when they cant find any markdowns and the produce and meats are picked over.

Shopping at less crowded times, like right after they open or later in the day, increases your chances of snagging new markdowns and catching newly stocked deals. Also, dedicated ALDI shoppers note that mid-week visits often coincide with full shelves and the best selection of deals.

The 2025 inflation rate was 2.7%

By Mark Huffman of ConsumerAffairs

• Inflation picked up modestly in December, with the overall Consumer Price Index rising 0.3% for the month and 2.7% over the past year.

• The sharpest price increases were seen in recreation, airline fares, shelter, and food-related categories.

• Several key prices fell or barely moved, including gasoline, eggs, used vehicles, communication services, and new cars.

Prices paid by U.S. consumers rose at a steady pace in December, but the details show a widening gap between the items rising fastest and those offering some relief.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that shelter costs were the single biggest contributor to Decembers increase in the Consumer Price Index, climbing 0.4% for the month and 3.2% over the past year. Rent and owners equivalent rent both rose 0.3%, while lodging away from home jumped a notable 2.9% in just one month.

The CPI rose 0.3% in December. For 2025, the inflation rate was 2.7%.

Among the fastest-rising categories, recreation prices surged 1.2% in December, the largest one-month increase ever recorded for that index. Airline fares jumped 5.2%, marking one of the steepest increases consumers faced during the month. Medical care services also continued to climb, with hospital services rising 1.0% and overall medical care up 0.4%.

Food prices still rising

Food prices were another major pressure point. Grocery store prices rose 0.7% in December, matching the increase for dining out. Within grocery stores, other food at home climbed 1.6%, dairy products rose 0.9%, and cereals and bakery items increased 0.6%. Over the past year, food away from home rose 4.1%, led by a 4.9% increase in full-service restaurant meals.

Energy costs were mixed but still higher overall. Natural gas prices spiked 4.4% in December and are up 10.8% over the past year, making them one of the fastest-rising household expenses. Electricity prices, though down slightly for the month, are still up 6.7% year over year.

What prices are going down

At the other end of the spectrum, several prices moved lower or barely changed, easing pressure in specific areas. Gasoline prices fell 0.5% in December and are down 3.4% from a year earlier. Egg prices plunged 8.2% in a single month, helping pull down the broader meats, poultry, fish, and eggs category.

Big-ticket items also showed weakness. Used cars and trucks dropped 1.1% in December, while new vehicle prices were unchanged. Communication services fell sharply, down 1.9% for the month, and household furnishings and operations declined 0.5%.

Taken together, the data show inflation that remains contained overall but unevenly distributed. Essentials such as housing, food, and utilities continue to rise faster than average, while discretionary and goods-related categories from vehicles to electronics and communication services are providing the most relief for consumers.