The European food blender

Mass market combinations have emerged from the European nations under the European Union, with its varied needs and demographic groups. Information is crossing borders via the Internet and more similarities than differences exist, but there are some definite variances. Convenience foods are very important in Northern Europe an many teens are vegetarian. Organically grown and free-range foods are important. Food safety concerns are intens, and genetically modified foods largely unwelcome. Functional and probiotic foods are wanted. Influences of the Americas, the Orient, Africa and the Middle East can be found. American supermarkets and fast-food outlets influence retailing. McDonalds, Starbucks and KFC units are in easy to find. Companies whose products or acquisitions are discussed include Asda, Walmart, Mars, whose Uncle Ben's Risotto Range hip advertising is discussed, Nestle, Danone with its Jahreszeit brand, McVities's Prepared Foods, Granarolo Felsinea, Schneekoppe and Unilever. Brands discussed include Calve, Linda McCartney, Zile Function+, Vivi vivo, Stefi+ and Biolabor Toffitis. Restaurant concepts are discussed. Import regulations on UK and US beef in France are discussed.