Emerging global cuisines are literally opening up a whole new world of culinary experiences to American consumers of all ages due to the nearly infinite range of ingredients, forms and flavors.

American consumers embrace an expanding range of foods and beverages -- driven by ever more complex lifestyles and schedules, nutritional and dietary considerations and culinary cross-currents.

What are today's top comfort foods? Consumers say they are turning more toward such artisan pies, meatloaf and "new" casseroles.

No longer just a nibble between meals or after school, snack food has taken center stage in the American diet, say Packaged Facts.