ACF Chef's Table SmartBrief
Plus, produce linked to 60% of foodborne illnesses in 2024
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March 23, 2026
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ACF Chef's Table SmartBrief
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Center of the Plate
 
Aramark debuts Pop-A-Tot for March Madness fans
Aramark Sports + Entertainment has introduced Pop-A-Tot, an interactive menu item, at three stadiums during March Madness. Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, SAP Center in San Jose, Calif., and Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C., each offer unique versions of the dish, featuring tater tots with various toppings. "As we prepare to serve more than 250,000 fans throughout the tournament's early rounds, we're excited to offer a mix of unique selections alongside their tried-and-true favorites -- all with the goal of delivering something special and memorable as we celebrate this exciting time in college sports," said Alison Birdwell, president and CEO of Aramark Sports + Entertainment.
Full Story: FoodService Director (3/20)
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Foodservice News
 
Caribbean fine dining gains traction in New York City
Caribbean cuisine is gaining prominence in New York City's fine dining scene, led by chefs such as Paul Carmichael of Kabawa, Gregory Gourdet of Maison Passerelle and India Doris of Markette. These chefs are showcasing the region's diverse flavors and history, moving beyond traditional dishes to create innovative menus. "People are starting to feel more comfortable cooking their own food that they grew up eating," Doris says. "It's important to be open-minded and not just think of Caribbean food as this very traditional thing."
Full Story: Robb Report (3/22)
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Chick-fil-A plans $50M Texas distribution center
Chick-fil-A has announced plans to build a $50 million distribution and warehouse facility in Lubbock, Texas, with construction set to begin in May. The facility, which will be near Lubbock Preston Smith International Airport, will enhance logistics for the chain's restaurants and will create 80 full-time jobs.
Full Story: Nation's Restaurant News (free registration) (3/20)
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Nourish: Health, Nutrition and Wellness News
 
Some foods are being labeled "GLP-1 friendly"
Food companies are marketing some products as "GLP-1 friendly," but there is no regulated definition that and similar terms. Nutritionists say people taking GLP-1 medications need protein to build and keep muscle, fiber to aid digestion and plenty of water. Items without labels -- such as produce -- can be the most friendly, nutritionist Allison Wiseman says.
Full Story: National Public Radio (3/23)
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Chia vs. hemp seeds: Choosing the right nutrient boost
Chia seeds and hemp seeds are both nutrient-dense options, but they offer different benefits depending on your dietary goals, say registered dietitians Natlie Rizzo, Whitney Linsenmeyer and Grace Derocha. Chia seeds are king when it comes to fiber, providing 10 grams per ounce, making them ideal for those focusing on gut health. In contrast, hemp seeds offer nearly double the protein content of chia seeds, with 9.5 grams per ounce, suitable for those prioritizing protein intake. Both seeds contain healthful fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, and are rich in various vitamins and minerals. They suggest choosing between them based on whether you need more fiber or protein in your diet.
Full Story: Today (3/18)
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Food Safety Watch
 
Produce linked to 60% of foodborne illnesses in 2024
 
Produce in a grocery store.
(Francesco Marzovillo/Getty Images)
Produce was the leading contributor to foodborne illnesses, accounting for 60% of cases in the US, according to the FDA's 2024 annual report. After fruits and vegetables, the most common sources of foodborne illnesses were multi-ingredient foods (20%); dairy products (10%); and nuts, seeds and eggs (5% each). The report also details notable outbreaks and the agency's surveillance and response activities.
Full Story: Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy (3/19)
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Culinary Trends and Innovations
 
How jacket potatoes became Britain's viral food craze
 
Nottingham, England, December 21, 2024. An excellent and hearty, typically English dish. These are jacket potatoes, whole potatoes baked in the oven with the peel and then stuffed. In the photo, the potato is cut in half and topped with tuna, beans, and thinly sliced ​​cheddar cheese.
(Ilviaggiatore/Getty Images)
A new wave of social media-savvy vendors like SpudBros has transformed the humble baked potato into a viral sensation in the UK, drawing massive lines and millions of followers by combining nostalgia, personality and creative toppings. The trend reflects a broader shift toward affordable, locally rooted comfort foods gaining cultural relevance -- though its long-term staying power remains uncertain.
Full Story: The New York Times (3/20)
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Finger Lakes winery gains international recognition
Hermann J. Wiemer, a Finger Lakes winery, has gained international recognition, with its Reserve Dry Riesling being featured by the glass at the New York Bar in Tokyo. The winery produces around 20,000 cases annually, exporting to countries including Japan, Denmark and the UK. "The Finger Lakes has a critical mass of attention now," says co-owner Oskar Bynke. "And that sense of discovery is spurring global recognition of wines like the Reserve Riesling -- bottles that offer strong value and a real sense of place."
Full Story: Food & Wine (3/23)
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Last week's most-read stories
 
 
Beef costs soar 32%, squeezing restaurant profitability
Restaurant Dive (3/13)
 
 
N.S. culinary instructor teaches humane lobster cooking
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Metz Culinary Management chefs elevate casseroles in contest
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Robot chef Robby makes debut in Philadelphia kitchen
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Disneyland Resort's culinary director exits after 26 years
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Leadership and Management
 
Be clear about your expectations to build team trust
 
Be clear about your expectations to build team trust
(Michail_Petrov-96/Getty Images)
When things are constantly changing and uncertain, you can build trust by making your expectations clear to your team, write Dennis and Michelle Reina, who recommend asking specific questions, such as "What challenges or constraints do you see?" to uncover any misunderstandings. "When leaders consistently clarify expectations, confirm understanding and revisit them as circumstances evolve, they create more than alignment. They create a pattern of leadership behavior that people can rely on and trust," they write.
Full Story: SmartBrief/Leadership (3/19)
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