With aftershocks still continuing and more devastation being uncovered, it’s time to remind everyone that the great gift you could provide Chile at the moment is your strong support of their wine industry. A number of wine merchants have gotten on the bandwagon and are promoting Chilean wines with a major customer cost savings and some of the proceeds being sent to help the relief efforts. Chilean wines have often been considered bargains for us in the US, now it’s time to make a difference. Tough job: Drink Chilean Wine!

The school lunch program continues to be under the microscope. Numerous reports are out indiciating the postive effects of removing sugary drinks from the building and replacing them with less sweet choices including bottled water. With the First Lady so heavily focused on obesity issues, watch the attention grow on the lunchbox issue.

Spices are under scrutiny this week with more pepper recalls and an FDA focus on the number of spice recalls over the past few years.

On the trend side of the spice world is the annual Flavor Profile from McCormick, the 10th annual forecast of pairings and new, emerging flavors. Here’s a good example: Pumpkin Pie Spice and Coconut Milk  with an accompanying recipe to make the pairing easier: Caribbean Chicken with Mango Coconut Sauce.

Now for the most important news of the week: to celebrate the first day of Spring, Rita’s will be hosting its 18th annual First Day of Spring Giveaway, next Saturday from noon til 10P. Those who visit one of the 500 franchised operations that day will get to choose their favorite flavor and get a free regular sized Italian ice. Don’t forget that Rita’s has partnered with PEEPS from March 20-April 4 for a perfect combination. Just so you know, you’ll have lots of company, Rita’s gives away about 14 million ounces in this annual promotion.

Bring your Saturday paper and enjoy a true Spring welcome!