James Beard Award Semifinalists, Quarter Pounder Scented Candle, Costco Enforces Food Court Policy [2/24/20 – 3/1/20]
McDonald’s is joining other fast-food chains like KFC and White Castle by selling novelty scented candles. The six-pack of candles contain scents that include: 100% Fresh Beef, Sesame Seed Bun, Pickle, Ketchup, Onion, and Cheese. Collectively, the scents make up the key ingredients to the Quarter Pounder (with cheese). The candles are currently sold out on Goldenarchesunlimited.com (McDonald’s fansite) but we found them for $200 on eBay. McDonald’s hopes to gain popularity with the Instagram generation by selling physical non-food items that can generate a buzz.
Could the coronavirus cause a shortage of Diet Coke? The soft drink giant says, “maybe?” The virus has stopped the production of many goods throughout the world, and that includes the sweeteners used in Diet Coke. Coke isn’t worried just yet but has stated that should conditions in China continue to deteriorate, they would run into a supply shortage.
The James Beard Award Semifinalists list is out, and it’s full of talented chefs and restaurateurs from all over the country. This year's list included a few changes like Texas, California, and New York getting separate categories for their states, and the reorganizing of several regions. The winners will be announced March 25th in Chicago, so this is the perfect time to check out the brightest and best in food in your area!
You might want to think twice before you down a giant bowl of konjac noodles (also known as shirataki noodles, or “skinny noodles”). A woman is suing Better Than Noodles, a Wisconsin-based company, and Amazon, after she developed a bezoar (solid mass) in her digestive tract upon consuming a large amount of the noodles. Instead of passing through her system, the noodles formed into a sponge-like ball and prevented anything from passing through her system. As a result, she was hospitalized and received a life-saving surgery to remove the mass. She claims that both companies knowingly sold the noodles without warning people of the potential risk. Konjac noodles are known for being made almost entirely of water and are very high in fiber, making them an attractive option for anyone looking to shed a few pounds, but still enjoy the occasional bowl of spaghetti.
We have praised Costco in the past for their reasonable prices and innovation at their food court, but things may be changing. The warehouse superstore has announced that as of March 16th, membership will be required to purchase food from the food court. While Costco has said that this has always been their policy, it was never enforced, and nonmembers were able to buy food court items without paying the $60 annual membership fee. People, of course, have taken to social media to show their support, adding that this may help with the long lines you generally experience, while others are not so thrilled. Where do you stand on this one?