MEULAN, France — Canada’s Véronique Rousseau is among 19 contestants from across the globe preparing for the World Chocolate Masters Final scheduled to take place in Paris, France from Oct. 10 to 21.

“During this three day-competition, 19 contestants will create a chocolate showpiece, a pastry, a chocolate dessert, a moulded and an enrobed praline and Aztec necklace,” reads the press release promoting the event organized by the gourmet chocolate brands Callebaut, Cacao Barry and Carma.

COPENHAGEN, Denmark — The price of fatty foods just went up in Denmark thanks to the introduction of the world's first fat tax and the British government is threatening to follow suit, according to the UKPA.

Danish officials hope the new tax, on food that has more than 2.3 per cent of saturated fat, will help limit the population's intake of fatty foods.

MILAN, Italy — Champion Industries, an Ali Group company specializing in designing, manufacturing, marketing and servicing of commercial foodservice equipment, has named Jay Bravinder director of Sales for its Champion and Bi-Line brands.

Bravinder brings extensive sales management and warewashing experience, including his most recent role as equipment sales manager for Strategic Equipment and Supply Corporation, where he was responsible for managing project teams and national accounts within the dealer community. 

ERFURT, Thuringia — The first deadline of the 2012 IKA/Culinary Olympics is nearing, as national team registration is to be completed by Sept. 30.

Forty-five teams have registered for this 23rd quadrennial event, which is expected to grow to 53 nations with some 1,600 chefs competing. Canada will enter individually and as part of National Team Canada and Youth Team Canada.