The culinary tradition of Provence, France could be considered “hardy country cooking.” Bouillabaisse, aioli and lavender ice cream are just some of the dishes that represent this region’s cuisine.

Kids are notorious snackers. Marketing to kids, rising childhood obesity rates and on-the-go lifestyles challenge manufacturers to develop and promote products that satisfy both kids and parents.

The organic beverages market is experiencing significant growth, especially in the dairy segment. Consumer concerns about food integrity, government organic standards and the availability of organics in mainstream channels will help fuel organic product expansion.

American consumers are seeking novel flavors and tastes. Manufacturers are responding with interpretations of well-known dishes and new creations. Prepared Foods’ exclusive flavor survey examines the trends expected to impact formulators and manufacturers the most.

Fair trade certification; banish bitterness in meat and poultry; go bananas with new summer soy coolers; blackberry flavor blasts; new findings on supplements and colon cancer; and more.

Muddled ingredients are the new buzzwords on cocktail menus, while fresh ingredients abound in restaurants throughout the U.S.

On-the-go products are growing as consumers’ demand for more convenient, healthy foods and beverages increases. Mintel’s and Euromonitor International’s research helps shed light on trends in this growing market segment.

Marketers, R&D groups and the legal system have grappled with issues of claims substantiation. Luckily, there is some regulatory guidance available to help answer the question of how much and what kind of claims support is required.

Healthy new diet soda; flavorful sugar-free stick gum; pizza as health food; iced tea consumption growth; states troubling over trans fats.

For younger people, having a “smart mouth” is usually followed by a reprimand in some form by an adult.