Flavor trends favor novel tastes and unique combinations

"Americans are always interested in new flavors as long as they are not 'too far out,' and will pay attention to edgy flavor combinations as long as they taste as good as they sound interesting."

Food Contamination Fears Could Harm Japanese Brands

"The Japanese Health Ministry said Saturday that it had detected elevated levels of radiation in spinach and milk at farms up to 90 miles from Japan’s crippled nuclear reactors. The ministry did not make reference to any contaminated farm animals, seafood or fishing grounds in Japan. And no food exports from Japan have failed quality tests being done by other countries. 

"But even the perception of contamination, one Japanese agriculture expert said, could cause long-lasting “brand damage,” especially if there was evidence of radiation spreading across Japan."

Indian Haute Cuisine at D.C.'s Kennedy Center by Chef Hemant Oberoi

"Washington, D.C., is in the midst of a celebration of all things Indian: A three-week festival at the Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts called maximum INDIA, has imported a slice of the country's rich sights, sounds, dances and dishes. For a taste of India, the festival turned to the country's top chef, Hemant Oberoi."

Mexico Puts Its Children on a Diet

Mexico's children are among the world's fattest, with one in three children overweight or obese.  Last year the country's education and health officials attempted to limit what schools could sell at recess, but snack food companies fought back through the Ministry of the Economy.  Nevertheless, the new rules have removed 90 percent of fried foods and all soft drinks from elementary schools.  Mexican schools do not serve lunch.