Venezuela Tourism & Food: Governor Luis Marcano inaugurated the “Anzoátegui Te Enamora” tourist point at José Antonio Anzoátegui International Airport, positioning the state as a hub for visitors with packages, gastronomy and experiences—highlighting local products like merey, peanuts and honey. Colombia Gastronomy Exchange: Bogota’s “The World in the Heart of Bogota” festival (Sept. 19-20) brings 12 countries together with representative dishes, from Honduras baleadas to Peru ceviche and chocoteja, aiming to boost tourism and local economic development. Food Safety Alert (Mexico-linked): The FDA upgraded an ongoing jalapeño recall tied to Salmonella Javiana infections linked to Sinaloa, Mexico, affecting 27 states, with consumers and restaurants told not to eat, sell or serve recalled products. Baking Industry Spotlight (Mexico): Grupo Bimbo was named by TIME as one of the World’s Best Companies 2026 for the third time, with the company citing record sales and ESG progress across its sustainability pillars. Hospitality & Dining Openings/Closings (LATAM-linked): St. Louis’ Thai spot Chao Baan will close after seven years, while Puerto Rico-themed Tainos LA continues to expand its local presence with classic dishes like mofongo and asopao de camarones. Beer Culture (Chile): Valdivia’s Cervecería Kunstmann leans into German brewing heritage while pairing tours with local specialties and its beer lineup.