A month after dead pigs washed ashore in a Shanghai river, the city got an even more serious meat problem: A new bird flu appeared at poultry markets. But even a recent rat meat scandal hasn't kept Shanghai's omnivores from enjoying KFC and Kung Pao Chicken.

The number of honeybees has now dwindled to the point where there may not be enough to pollinate some major U.S. crops, including almonds, blueberries and apples. And this year brought farmers closer than ever to a true pollination crisis.

Some 9 million Britons have taken up baking in the last year alone. A TV program showcasing home bakers is a runaway hit, and sales of baking goods have skyrocketed. Then there are the cake clubs, where the rules call for pacing yourself — and sampling as much as you can.

One of the best-kept secrets in Washington is a cookie recipe.

Actually, fresh fish doesn't smell "fishy," says Joe Palca. He spent a recent morning watching Hawaii's fishermen sell some 50,000 pounds of catch on the auction floor and sends this postcard.