We're Talking About Tipping at Restaurants Again

"Bromated flour (which includes the ingredient potassium bromate) is set to be banned in New York state. The ingredient works as extra insurance that your dough will be springy and pliable, but has shown to be carcinogenic. This has massive implications for bagel and pizza shops, an estimated 80-90% of whom use brominated flour, as they'll likely have to find new suppliers. Which may mean a higher price for your next slice."

"New data from payment platform Square reveals that tipping averages at full service restaurants have started trending upward for the first time in four years. Back in 2022 tipping averages were around 15.16%, but over the years they steadily lowered. For the last three quarters they've begun to rise, though they still hover at 14.82%."

"In other news, expect more changes for Crumbl, the once-viral cookie chain that's seen slowed growth in recent years. This week, the chain's two co-founders announced they're stepping down. "This is not goodbye," reads a statement shared on X. Does this mean America is preparing to enter the next era of desserts? Should we all get into ice cream again?"

Bromated flour containing potassium bromate is scheduled for a ban in New York state. The ingredient helps dough stay springy and pliable, but it has been shown to be carcinogenic. Many bagel and pizza shops rely on brominated flour, so they will likely need new suppliers, which could increase prices. Crumbl, a cookie chain with slowed growth, has announced that its two co-founders are stepping down. Tipping data from Square shows full-service restaurant tipping averages have started trending upward after four years of decline, reaching about 14.82% over the last three quarters. Other items include a potential protein powder crisis, expensive tomatoes, and eating on Route 66.

Read at Bon Appetit