Americans turn to bold flavors in a variety of worldly cuisines

SAN FRANCISCO CHRONICLE
If people really are what they eat, we are becoming a nation of hotties.
Something strange has happened to the American palate. After decades of being satisfied with mild foods, it's now craving bold flavors that pack a punch -- hot and spicy, sweet and heat, and interesting combinations that add new meaning to kicking it up a notch.
Experts say the population has become more diverse and better-traveled, and taste buds are reflecting this new worldliness.
"We've become much more adventurous in our eating," said Rachel Koryl, a trend analyst for the Center for Culinary Development in San Francisco.
"In the last five years, we've really seen a change in tastes. Baby boomers are eating out more often and are being exposed to different ethnic cuisines. And today's kids are growing up on ethnic foods like Thai and sushi."
Boldness and variety
But diners aren't just reaching for pungent curry or spicy tuna rolls. They want bold flavors in all kinds of foods -- haute cuisine, fast food, snacks and even candy. Big corporations like General Mills, Wrigley, McDonald's and Denny's are all cashing in on the flavor craze.
Just this month, the Coca-Cola Co. introduced Blak, a new "fusion" beverage of Coke and coffee. Last month, Frito-Lay launched its new Sensations line of potato and tortilla chips seasoned with ingredients like chiles, crushed red pepper and black peppercorns.