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Protein boom is threatening to wipe out vegetarian chain as shutdown looms

Published

6 days ago

April 16, 2026

A popular vegetarian restaurant chain is warning it could close amid financial uncertainty, as an expert points to shifting demand for meat and dairy.

Clover Food Lab, a Boston-area vegetarian fast-casual chain, recently filed a warning that it may close and lay off 182 workers if it’s unable to find a new buyer, according to local outlet WBZ-TV.

“Clover is expected to close on May 29, 2026, unless we secure a buyer for the company by that date,” the company’s filing said.

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Clover Food Lab told Fox News Digital it filed a WARN notice to comply with Massachusetts law in case a sale is not completed.

“We simply want to comply with all regulations in the case of a change of operations,” the company said in a statement.

“We are optimistic that Clover will continue to serve our locally sourced farm-to-table fast food in Clover’s next chapter.”

The chain began as a food truck at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in 2008. Eventually, it expanded to multiple locations across Massachusetts serving locally sourced, plant-based food.

The chain filed for bankruptcy in 2023, citing COVID-related financial troubles, before coming back in 2024 with an ambitious plan to expand across the region.

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The developments come as consumers appear to be moving away from the plant-based trends of the 2010s and focusing on high-protein foods, especially meat and dairy.

That shift is reflected in the broader marketplace, where demand for protein-rich foods and beverages continues to grow.

Market research firm IMARC Group recently found that the global dairy-based protein market was valued at about $15 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $22 billion by 2033.

The Trump administration’s 2025–2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans also eased earlier restrictions on red meat and full-fat dairy, allowing them as part of a balanced diet in moderation.

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Meat and dairy are regaining ground with consumers, said Adam Yee, a North Carolina-based food scientist and consultant who studies food trends and develops products.

Yee told Fox News Digital that U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) statistics show per capita meat consumption on the rise, and he cited “a lot of factors” behind the shift.

“One is that meat and dairy are perceived as cleaner products with more protein,” Yee noted.

Scrutiny over ultra-processed foods is another major factor, he said, as plant-based meat tends to be made with a long list of ingredients.

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Generally, consumers “would rather choose meat and dairy than the alternatives,” Yee added, citing both cost and the fact that meat is more satisfying.

“Meat and dairy just have an easier time communicating [their] value and delivering in taste than plant-based products,” he said.

He added, “Clover Food Lab is suffering from a general decline in restaurant sales, but the factors that are increasing meat and dairy sales, and decreasing plant-based sales, are definitely crushing them.”

Fox News Digital reached out to the Plant Based Foods Association for comment, but did not immediately receive a reply.

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Caroline Leavitt Out — Her Replacement Has Been Named

Published

41 minutes ago

April 22, 2026

Addison Blake

Caroline Leavitt Out — Her Replacement Has Been Named

The most visible figure in the White House briefing room is expected to step back temporarily in the coming months. Karoline Leavitt, who became the youngest press secretary in U.S. history, is expecting her second child, a daughter, due in May.

Her anticipated leave has sparked speculation in Washington over who may handle briefing duties during her absence, with several possible successors emerging from within the press office.

Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly is widely seen as a leading internal candidate. She joined the White House in January after serving in senior communications roles at the Republican National Committee and in the House of Representatives.

Kelly also serves as a special assistant to Donald Trump, a role that places her close to senior decision-making within the administration. Her background also extends beyond politics. In 2019, Kelly was crowned Miss State Fair of Virginia, a title she used to encourage civic engagement among younger Americans.

“In today’s polarized political climate, it is our job to step up to the plate and work to ensure the government we receive is a good one,” she told the *Fairfax Times*.

“It is my goal as Miss State Fair of Virginia to show young people that, contrary to what they might believe, we do have a voice and it’s about time we used it,” Kelly, a graduate of Auburn University, added.

Assistant Press Secretary Taylor Rogers is also viewed as a possible option. A graduate of Clemson University, she joined the White House at the start of Trump’s second term after spending nearly two years at the Republican National Committee.

Rogers has reportedly worked closely with Press Secretary Leavitt, including appearances in the Oval Office, and maintains an active social media presence documenting her role in the administration.

Regional Press Secretary Liz Huston is another potential candidate. A graduate of Indiana University, she joined the administration from StateRAMP, where she worked as a program manager following an internship.

Leavitt has not publicly announced a formal timeline for stepping back from daily briefing duties, but she has shared personal updates.

According to the *Daily Mail*, Leavitt recently celebrated her baby shower and posted photos from the event, including one with her mother, Erin, and close friends.

“My beautiful friends threw me a beautiful baby shower, and I couldn’t be more grateful,” she wrote. “I feel blessed to have so many strong and loving women in my life and can’t believe we will welcome our little lady into the world in a few weeks.”

In December, Leavitt announced on Instagram that she and her husband, Nicholas Riccio, are expecting a girl. She described the news as “the greatest Christmas gift we could ever ask for.”

“My husband and I are thrilled to grow our family and can’t wait to watch our son become a big brother,” Leavitt wrote. The couple’s first child, a son named Niko, was born in July 2024.

Leavitt also thanked the administration’s leadership when announcing her pregnancy, crediting President Trump and Chief of Staff Susie Wiles with building “a pro-family environment in the White House.”

She ended the post with a note of excitement: “2026 is going to be a great year, and I’m so excited to be a girl mom.”

After the announcement, Trump’s daughter-in-law Lara Trump told Fox News that Leavitt had no plans to leave the administration. “Karoline Leavitt is a machine, she’s going nowhere,” Lara told host Lisa Boothe, adding that Leavitt quickly returned to the Trump campaign after the birth of her son last year.

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Dave Mason, co-founder of legendary British rock band Traffic, dead at 79

Published

1 hour ago

April 22, 2026

Addison Blake

Dave Mason, co-founder of the British rock band Traffic, has died. He was 79.

“It is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason,” a statement on the musician’s official Instagram read. “On Sunday, April 19, after cooking an amazing dinner with his beloved wife Winifred, he sat down to take a nap with sweet Star (the maltese) at his feet.”

“He passed away peacefully, in his favorite chair, surrounded by the beautiful Carson Valley that he loved so much. A storybook ending. On his own terms. Which is how he lived his life right up until the end. He leaves a lasting imprint on the soundtrack of our lives and the hearts he has lifted. His legacy will be cherished forever.”

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In a statement to Deadline, the rock legend’s representative said, “On behalf of his family, it is with deep and profound sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dave Mason.”

“On Sunday, April 19, the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame inductee, celebrated songwriter, musician, singer, and author, passed away peacefully at his home in Gardnerville, NV.”

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“Dave Mason lived a remarkable life devoted to the music and the people he loved,” the spokesperson added.

The cause of his death is unknown.

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Fans quickly flocked to social media to share their condolences.

“I am so sad to hear about his passing. He was a GOAT – amazing song writer, guitarist and performer. He will be sorely missed. My sincere condolences to Winifred. May his memory be a blessing,” one user wrote on Instagram.

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“From a long, long time fan, roadie, and believer in his messages… thank you, Mr. Dave Mason for sharing your talents, gifts, and soul energies with us all. Rest in purity,” another added.

In 2024, Mason canceled his “Traffic Jam Tour” due to “a serious heart condition,” according to Deadline. A year later, the guitarist announced his retirement, citing “ongoing health challenges.”

Mason is survived by his wife, Winifred Wilson, and daughter Danielle, as well as several nieces and nephews.

Latest

With Clarity Mother’s Day sale: Save up to 30% on lab-grown diamond gifts

Published

1 hour ago

April 22, 2026

Addison Blake

Jewelry gifts can get expensive, but during With Clarity’s Mother’s Day sale, you save up to 30% on select lab-grown diamond styles, from classic studs and gold hoops to dainty bracelets and cross necklaces. Shop now before the sale ends May 10.

Original price: $1,210

Diamond stud earrings are a jewelry box staple. This pair features two 2-carat round lab-grown diamonds set in platinum or white, rose or yellow gold. Currently 30% off, this is the highest discount you’ll find on this list.

Original price: $800

This solitaire necklace adds sparkle with a round-cut lab-grown diamond and layers easily with other pieces. Choose from yellow, rose or white gold, with diamond sizes ranging from a half carat to two carats to suit her style.

Original price: $790

Give a gift that feels personal with these birthstone and diamond studs. A round-cut lab-grown diamond sits above a floating emerald, ruby or sapphire for a tasteful pop of color.

Original price: $830

Everyone needs a pair of gold hoops, and diamonds make them even better. These hoops feature 48 diamonds set in white, yellow or rose gold. They’re a timeless choice for special occasions or everyday wear.

Original price: $720

This duet necklace pairs emerald-cut and round-cut lab-grown diamonds for a look that stands out. The 18-inch chain comes in sterling silver or white, yellow or rose gold and closes with a secure clasp.

Original price: $760

Sparkle from every angle with this necklace. Five lab-grown diamonds line a white, yellow or rose gold chain, adding just enough elegance for dressier outfits without feeling overdone for everyday wear.

Original price: $1,000

A petite lab-grown diamond bracelet delivers a tennis bracelet feel without the bulk. A tight row of lab-grown diamonds lines half the chain for a simple, refined look she can wear on repeat. Snag it for $150 off during the sale.

Original price: $990

This drop necklace combines three diamonds for a polished, eye-catching statement. Customize the chain and stones — choose white, yellow or rose gold, or swap in emeralds, rubies or sapphires.

Original price: $400

These lab-grown diamond-encrusted earrings hug the outer ear, leaving room on the earlobes for studs or hoops. The vine-inspired design adds a touch of sparkle without weighing her down.

Original price: $690

This lab-grown pendant elevates a classic cross necklace with small round diamonds and a standout princess-cut center stone. It’s a meaningful gift she can wear daily.

Original price: $760

Another great stacking option, these huggies blend the look of hoops and studs into one versatile style. Each showcases a diamond totaling a half carat set at the center, creating a noticeable shine as the earring wraps the lobe.

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Original price: $810

A symbol of lasting love, this dainty circle pendant makes a meaningful Mother’s Day gift. It features 25 lab-grown diamonds totaling a quarter carat, set in white, yellow or rose gold on an 18-inch sterling silver chain.