[Global Food News is a weekly selection of world food news deemed important, absurd, strange, or otherwise hilarious at Food Trotter!]
Banana Vending Machines
Just when you thought we couldn’t get more bananas, the Dole Food Company is launching banana vending machines in Japan. Sounds ridiculous? Considering that Japan has one vending machine per twenty-three people and vending machine products that go beyond drinks and snacks (lobsters, underwear, porn, eggs, or anything that fits in a vending machine), it’s no surprise that bananas are next on the list. Dole has successfully set up a prototype machine that offers each banana at ¥130 (1.50 USD) a piece or ¥390 (4.50 USD) for six. Sooner or later, you’ll be seeing these vending machines across Japan from offices to universities. As Japan is already world-famous for its vending machines, it’s worth a look to see what other knickknacks are offered on your next trip! So, would you eat a banana from a vending machine?! [Japan Trends]
Giant Burgers Causes Jaw Injuries in Taiwan
We’re all familiar with the obesity problem here in North America, but in hot pursuit is China’s massive obesity epidemic. Much to blame is the addiction to Western-style fast food and the success of food chains such as McDonald’s, Pizza Hut, and KFC. But to add salt to the wound, people in Taiwan are also developing sore jaws and having difficulty opening their mouths due to their obsession with GIGANTIC over-sized burgers. Medically termed as Temporomandibular dysfunction, eaters who bite into large burgers tend to over-extend their mouths, resulting in orgasmic jaw-related injuries. I’ve had my share of jaw-dropping food bites, but not to the extent of causing injury! Maybe you should take small bites instead and avoid a checkup to the doctor [Weird Asia News]
A Video Compilation of Every Secret Ingredient on Iron Chef America
I’ve always loved Iron Chef America and its fun competitive twist to cooking. With its awesome narration, instant-replays, and quick scene cuts, it’s a show that draws your attention unlike any other cooking show. For those unaware of Iron Chef, it’s a stylized cooking competition featuring guest chefs challenging an “Iron Chef” master. The best part of the show is the unveiling of the secret ingredient by host Mark Dacascos! Lobster, beer, chicken, rice, or any ingredient imaginable must be used by both contenders to create signature dishes. To that end, here’s a video compilation of every single secret ingredient on Iron Chef America! Mark’s expression and enthusiasm with each unveiling is simply hilarious! [You Tube]
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I have yet to see one of those banana vending machines…although I’ve heard that there is one in Shibuya on the side of the station that I never walk to/past by. I think I’m going to have to go on a banana hunt around Shibuya station now!!!