Tastemaker: Food designer Sarah Masoni's million-dollar palate
At Oregon State University's Food Innovation Center, she uses her most exquisite taste (buds) to help chefs fine-tune their recipes
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Meet the food designer with a perfect palate
As the director of Product and Process Development at the Oregon State University's Food Innovation Center, Sarah Masoni uses her uniquely-qualified taste buds as a "food designer" to help chefs and food companies perfect their products. Lee Cowan reports on someone with most exquisite taste (buds).
Balsamic vinegar, the "black gold" of Modena, Italy
In the city of Modena, in northern Italian, balsamic vinegar has been produced for generations. Once used as a gift among nobility or as a wedding dowry, balsamic vinegar is now a favorite of food connoisseurs the world over. Seth Doane dives into the process of creating a product where some varieties take up to a hundred years to age.
Balsamic vinegar, the "black gold" of Modena
The luxurious liquid has been produced for generations in Northern Italy, where some varieties take up to 100 years to mature
The last straw: Seattle's drinking straw ban
Millions of plastic drinking straws end up as litter, often in the oceans, which is why this summer Seattle became the largest city in America to ban plastic straws in restaurants, to be replaced with compostable or paper options. Tony Dokoupil talks with anti-straw advocates fighting the preponderance of single-use plastic in a throwaway culture, and with representatives of the food service industry in search of alternatives that will be easy for consumers to swallow.
Sparkling water is making a splash
Thanks in part to increased health consciousness, sales of carbonated water is bubbling over
The bubbly market for sparkling water
Welcome to the "Age of Effervescence," when sales of seltzer and sparkling water are positively bubbling over. Serena Altachul talks with seltzer expert Barry Joseph, author of "Seltzertopia," and with Alex Gomberg, the owner of Brooklyn Seltzer Boys, where carbonated water has been produced for generations.
The craving for hot sauces is heating up
The popular web series "Hot Ones," in which celebrities are interviewed while eating violently-hot chicken wings, speaks to the public's increased taste for ever-hotter condiments
Hot sauce has never been hotter
Hot sauce sales are increasing faster than any other condiment. To get a taste of what people can't get enough of, the hugely popular web series "Hot Ones" features celebrities sampling some REALLY HOT foods, and with about 3 million views per episode, the series shows no signs of cooling off. But could correspondent Michelle Miller pass the hot sauce test herself? She decided to put her mouth where her mouth is, and also talks with chili farmer "Smokin' Ed" Currie, who introduces Miller to the fearsome Carolina Reaper, the hottest pepper in the world.
Tater tots go gourmet
Born from the scraps of a French fry factory, the humble staple of American casseroles and cafeterias is now featured in Michelin-starred restaurants
In praise of tater tots
The humble tater tot, that staple of American casseroles and cafeterias, was created in the 1950s when a French fry company envisioned a way to use up all those potato scraps. Today, tater tots are even served in gourmet restaurants. Luke Burbank talks with food blogger Dan Whalen, author of a cookbook devoted to tater tots, and with chef David Kinch, whose Michelin-starred Manresa, in Los Gatos, Calif., has tater tots on the menu.
Picture perfect: Nathan Myhrvold's eye-popping pictures of food
The former Microsoft executive's latest passion is photography, using robots to better capture food at the perfect moment
Feast for the Eyes
Former Microsoft executive Nathan Myhrvold is a man of many talents, from geophysics and space physics to economics – and now, taking eye-popping portraits of food. To get his perfect pictures, which have been featured in art galleries and in a book, "The Photography of Modernist Cuisine," Myhrvold had to design robots to help better capture food at the perfect moment. David Pogue reports.
Bowled over for breakfast
What happened when food blogger Wil Fulton tried an experiment of eating nothing but breakfast cereal for a week? And with egg sandwich sales increasing for breakfast, how are cereal makers trying to re-energize their brands?
Bowled over for breakfast cereal
What happened when food blogger Wil Fulton tried an experiment of eating nothing but breakfast cereal for a week – 82 consecutive bowls? Susan Spencer talks with Fulton about his serial dining on cereal. She also talks with Yale University's Paul Freedman about the history of breakfasts; Dana McNabb, of General Mills, who is bowled over by new varieties of cereal; and registered dietitian Wendy Lopez, who reveals her secret to breakfast smoothies.
Exclusive
See how Minnesota fraudsters spent millions earmarked for hungry kids
Documents and images show luxury purchases and wire transfers to China and East Africa.
Live
Senate fails to advance health care bills, with price hikes looming
The Senate on Thursday failed to advance competing Democratic and Republican measures to address health care costs. Follow live updates here.
Charlie Kirk murder suspect appears in court as judge weighs media access
Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. They plan to seek the death penalty.
Some lawmakers see path for health care deal after failed Senate votes
With the partisan exercise behind them, some senators are expressing tepid optimism about a path forward on a health care compromise.
Erika Kirk has one word for Candace Owens
Erika Kirk has one word for Candace Owens, who has been peddling conspiracy theories about Charlie Kirk.
Federal judge orders Abrego Garcia's immediate release from ICE custody
A federal judge in Maryland on Thursday ordered Kilmar Abrego Garcia's immediate release from Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody.
The architects of AI are Time's 2025 Person of the Year
Time magazine named "the architects of AI" its 2025 Person of the Year on Thursday, calling out tech industry leaders behind the rise in artificial intelligence.
Tennessee executes man for 1988 rape and murder of college student
"To the people I harmed, I'm sorry," Harold Wayne Nichols said in his final statement.
MyPillow's Mike Lindell announces he's running for Minnesota governor
MyPillow founder and CEO Mike Lindell has announced he will run for Minnesota governor as a Republican against incumbent Gov. Tim Walz.
U.S.
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Critics detail concerns over proposed Chinese "super embassy" in London
Two former MI6 officials detail their espionage concerns, as the U.K once again delays its final decision on a new Chinese embassy in London.
The architects of AI are Time's 2025 Person of the Year
Time magazine named "the architects of AI" its 2025 Person of the Year on Thursday, calling out tech industry leaders behind the rise in artificial intelligence.
Some lawmakers see path for health care deal after failed Senate votes
With the partisan exercise behind them, some senators are expressing tepid optimism about a path forward on a health care compromise.
Former officials warn of safety risks because of consumer watchdog cuts
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has lost key leadership and staff over the past year. Now two former commissioners removed by the Trump administration are raising concerns over safety risks.
Minnesota tops list of 10 most expensive pandemic aid fraud schemes
Luxury cars, homes, jewelry and casino trips were among the spoils of some of the biggest pandemic era fraud cases, according to a CBS News review of five years of government records and data.
MoneyWatch
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Former officials warn of safety risks because of consumer watchdog cuts
The Consumer Product Safety Commission has lost key leadership and staff over the past year. Now two former commissioners removed by the Trump administration are raising concerns over safety risks.
Trump says "prices are coming down." Here's what the data shows.
President Trump says he's winning the war against inflation. But a look at prices around the U.S. shows why many Americans still feel financially squeezed.
Disney to invest $1 billion in OpenAI under new licensing agreement
Disney said on Thursday it will make a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI under a new partnership with the Sora and ChatGPT developer.
Waymo recalls more than 3,000 vehicles due to faulty software
NHTSA said faulty software may cause Waymo vehicles to pass a stopped school bus even when its red lights are flashing or its stop arm is extended.
Justice Department moves to drop charges in international soccer corruption case
Federal prosecutors in New York moved to drop charges against former Fox employee Hernan Lopez and Full Play Group, an Argentine sports media rights company.
Politics
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Some lawmakers see path for health care deal after failed Senate votes
With the partisan exercise behind them, some senators are expressing tepid optimism about a path forward on a health care compromise.
Minnesota tops list of 10 most expensive pandemic aid fraud schemes
Luxury cars, homes, jewelry and casino trips were among the spoils of some of the biggest pandemic era fraud cases, according to a CBS News review of five years of government records and data.
MyPillow's Mike Lindell announces he's running for Minnesota governor
MyPillow founder and CEO Mike Lindell has announced he will run for Minnesota governor in 2026, seeking the Republican nomination to challenge DFL incumbent Gov. Tim Walz.
Federal judge orders Abrego Garcia's immediate release from ICE custody
A federal judge in Maryland on Thursday ordered Kilmar Abrego Garcia's immediate release from Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody.
Live
Senate fails to advance health care bills, with price hikes coming for millions
The Senate on Thursday failed to advance competing Democratic and Republican measures to address health care costs. Follow live updates here.
HealthWatch
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Botulism outbreak tied to ByHeart products includes 51 babies in 19 states
Health officials say an infant botulism outbreak tied to ByHeart baby formula has been expanded to include all illnesses reported since the company began production in 2022.
Extended interview: Dr. Rochelle Walensky
CBS News chief medical correspondent Dr. Jon LaPook speaks at length with former CDC director Dr. Rochelle Walensky about the hepatitis B vaccine and last week's vote by the CDC's vaccine advisory panel to change the recommendation for when children should get their first dose of the vaccine.
Nursing home chain avoids settlement payouts after bankruptcy filing
Genesis HealthCare's bankruptcy case in Dallas will allow the nursing home chain to avoid paying millions of dollars it promised for residents who were injured or died while in its care.
Nuts sold at Wegmans stores in 9 states recalled over salmonella risk
Mixed nuts from Ohio-based Mellace Family Brands sold at some Wegmans stores could be tainted with Salmonella, FDA warns.
Details on CDC Hepatitis B vaccine decision
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's vaccine advisory panel on Friday voted to not recommend the Hepatitis B vaccine for everyone at birth, alarming many in the medical community. CBS News medical contributor Dr. Celine Gounder explains what to know about the decision and its potential impact.
World
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Critics detail concerns over proposed Chinese "super embassy" in London
Two former MI6 officials detail their espionage concerns, as the U.K once again delays its final decision on a new Chinese embassy in London.
Exclusive
Inside the secret mission to get Nobel Peace Prize winner out of Venezuela
An American special forces veteran led the operation to get María Corina Machado out of Venezuela: "The first Nobel Prize winner that we've ever rescued."
More than 600 British Empire artifacts stolen from U.K. museum
Police said they wanted to talk to four unidentified men, all wearing caps or hoodies, seen in the CCTV images carrying bags in the early hours.
Nobel laureate María Corina Machado makes first public appearance in 11 months
María Corina Machado had been in hiding in Venezuela since January, when she was briefly detained after joining supporters in a protest in Caracas.
What we know about The Skipper, the oil tanker seized by the U.S. near Venezuela
The U.S. seized a 20-year-old oil tanker called The Skipper off the coast of Venezuela on Wednesday, three sources told CBS News. Here's what we know about the boat and the operation.
Entertainment
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Entertainment
"Waiting to Exhale" stars on 30th anniversary
The iconic movie "Waiting to Exhale," starring Angela Bassett, Whitney Houston, Loretta Devine and Lela Rochon premiered 30 years ago this month. The film, which had an all Black cast and focused on female empowerment, was a box office hit. "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King spoke with the stars of the film about the movie and what Houston would think.
Sombr talks about writing breakout hits
Singer-songwriter Sombr is up for Best New Artist of the Year at the Grammy Awards. He was the only writer on his debut album, "I Barely Know Her." He spoke to Anthony Mason about where his journey began and his whirlwind year.
Carly Pearce on new music
Grammy-winning country music superstar Carly Pearce joins "CBS Mornings" to talk about her highly-anticipated fifth studio album, fans relating to the lyrics in her music and being vulnerable.
Joe Bonamassa album pays tribute to B.B. King
Five-time Grammy Award winner Joe Bonamassa may already hold the record for the most No. 1 albums on the Billboard blues albums chart with 29, but he has no plans to stop anytime soon. His upcoming album is a tribute to B.B. King and includes tracks from artists like Aloe Blacc and Eric Clapton. "CBS Mornings" gets a behind-the-scenes look.
Sophie Kinsella, author of bestselling "Shopaholic" novels, dies at 55
Sophie Kinsella, whose real name was Madeleine Wickham, was diagnosed with aggressive brain cancer in 2022.
Technology
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Disney to invest $1 billion in OpenAI under new licensing agreement
Disney said on Thursday it will make a $1 billion equity investment in OpenAI under a new partnership with the Sora and ChatGPT developer.
Australia's new social media ban started with a mom saying, "Do something!"
With the world's first social media ban for children and teenagers under 16 now in effect in Australia, its initial political architect reveals it was personally inspired by his wife, for their four children.
How AI powered robots are helping small farms
From labor shortages to environmental impacts, farmers are looking to AI to help revolutionize the agriculture industry. One California startup, Farm-ng, is tapping into the power of AI and robotics to perform a wide range of tasks, including seeding, weeding and harvesting.
How one couple sparked a global movement for a smartphone-free childhood
For thousands of parents in 39 countries, including the U.S., the goal is simple: More time outdoors, and a childhood lived offline as much as possible.
Australian teens challenge social media ban
Australia began enforcing a social media ban for kids under the age of 16. CBS News' Ramy Inocencio reports.
Science
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Fossil footprints in Bolivia reveal dinosaurs' awkward attempts to swim
Paleontologists have discovered and documented 16,600 footprints left by theropods, the dinosaur group that includes the Tyrannosaurus rex.
"Space gum" discovered in asteroid Bennu samples, NASA reveals
Samples collected from the asteroid Bennu are continuing the shed light on the origins of the solar system and how life developed on Earth, scientists say.
CEO of genetics firm says parents have a right to choose unborn child's traits
Kian Sadeghi, the 25-year-old founder and CEO at Nucleus Genomics, tells "CBS Mornings" that parents have every right to select the qualities and traits they desire in their child.
Sick ants invite self-sacrifice to save colony: "Come and kill me"
Ant colonies act as one "super-organism" which works to ensure the survival of all, according to a team of scientists.
Mystery owner of ancient foot found in Africa identified, scientists say
The discovery could cast some doubt on the status of Lucy's species as the direct ancestor of Homo sapiens.
Crime
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Crime
Deadline for Epstein files release approaches
The Department of Justice's Dec. 19 deadline to release the Jeffrey Epstein case files is approaching. CBS News' Jake Rosen reports.
Tennessee executes man for 1988 rape and murder of college student
"To the people I harmed, I'm sorry," Harold Wayne Nichols said in his final statement.
More on seizure of oil tanker near Venezuela
Experts are weighing in on the American operation to seize an oil tanker near the coast of Venezuela. Retired Lt. Col. Rachel VanLandingham, a professor at Southwestern Law School, has more on the operation, and CBS News contributor Sam Vinograd breaks down the legalities of the seizure.
More than 600 British Empire artifacts stolen from U.K. museum
Police said they wanted to talk to four unidentified men, all wearing caps or hoodies, seen in the CCTV images carrying bags in the early hours.
Charlie Kirk murder suspect appears in court as judge weighs media access
Prosecutors have charged Tyler Robinson with aggravated murder in the Sept. 10 shooting of conservative activist Charlie Kirk. They plan to seek the death penalty.
Space
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NASA says Maven spacecraft that was orbiting Mars has gone silent
NASA has lost contact with a spacecraft that's been orbiting Mars for more than a decade.
Black hole spotted blasting winds at 130 million miles per hour
The European Space Agency said that the black hole inside the spiral galaxy NGC 3783 has the mass of 30 million suns.
3-man crew undocks from space station, wrapping up 8-month stay
Russian Soyuz crews are now spending eight months aboard the space station instead of six to stretch supplies and lower costs.
"Space gum" discovered in asteroid Bennu samples, NASA reveals
Samples collected from the asteroid Bennu are continuing the shed light on the origins of the solar system and how life developed on Earth, scientists say.
Air Force approves SpaceX launch pad expansion
The U.S. Air Force has approved SpaceX's plan to redevelop a historic launch pad at Cape Canaveral. CBS News correspondent Mark Strassmann reports.
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Latest CBS News Videos
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The Uplift: Pint-sized politician
A pint-sized politician proves you are never too little to run a big campaign. David Begnaud catches up with the Agars, a father-son duo making history by competing together in triathlons. Plus, more heartwarming stories.
NASCAR settles major antitrust case
NASCAR reached a settlement Thursday in the major antitrust lawsuit filed by two of the stock car series' race teams, including one co-owned by NBA legend Michael Jordan. CBS News' Tom Hanson reports.
Takeaways from Noem testimony before House
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem was on Capitol Hill Thursday for a fiery House hearing on worldwide threats. CBS News national security contributor Samantha Vinograd has more.
Deadline for Epstein files release approaches
The Department of Justice's Dec. 19 deadline to release the Jeffrey Epstein case files is approaching. CBS News' Jake Rosen reports.
Trump on oil from seized Venezuelan tanker
President Trump was not clear on what the U.S. plans to do with the oil from a Venezuelan tanker that was seized on Wednesday. Meanwhile, questions are emerging about the fate of the crew aboard the oil ship. CBS News' Weijia Jiang reports.