• There’s way more that goes into perceiving flavors than just our taste buds. And here’s a fascinating tidbit: ” … nearly everyone has at least one ‘specific anosmia,’ meaning you can’t detect a particular odor,” such as truffles. [WP]
• Global food costs might rise 4.4 percent before the end of the year, reaching a record high. Vegans will fare better, though, since the biggest jumps will be in beef, pork, and dairy. [Bloomberg, Courrier-Post]
• Speaking of inflation, here’s a breakdown showing how different sectors of the restaurant industry will likely be affected going forward. Might want to start weaning yourself off pizza! [NRN]
• The New York Cosmos soccer team is staging a comeback, and its ads know just how to appeal to residents of this city: with images of iconic food and drink landmarks like Katz’s and McSorley’s. [DNA Info]
• Looks like Japan and surrounding countries may be in for the long haul: In Wales, which was affected by detritus from Chernobyl, sheep are still scanned for radiation 25 years later. [BBC]
• If you insist on photographing your food (which infuriates Grub Street when it causes ours to get cold), at least do a good job: herewith, a handy guide. [Serious Eats]
• AdWeek just released its annual Hot List and the unflaggingly popular Food Network Magazine made the top slot. Guess people love reading a magazine about a TV network … [Fishbowl NY/Mediabistro]
