Fun facts from the gastronomy

Gastronomy around the world is full of passion, creativity—and surprising stories. Whether it's a Michelin-starred restaurant, a modern concept eatery, or a classic currywurst stand: Behind the scenes of the food world lie countless exciting, curious, and even funny facts. We've compiled a selection of seven fun facts from the gastronomy world for you—from Germany and around the world.

Sit back, enjoy a coffee – and immerse yourself in the entertaining world of gastronomy!

The Currywurst – Bestseller Made in Germany

Germany loves currywurst – that's no secret. But did you know that around 800 million currywursts are consumed in Germany every year? The car manufacturer VW even has its own in-house production facility. There, the VW currywurst is even considered an official spare part with a part number.

Fun fact: The VW currywurst has the part number 199 398 500 A.

Restaurants with edible plates

Zero waste taken further: In Japan in particular, some restaurants serve food on edible plates made of wheat or rice . They look like regular bowls but are completely edible. This reduces waste and fits perfectly with the philosophy of Japanese cuisine, which traditionally works with minimal waste.

Fun fact: In Japan, there are also edible spoons, bowls – and even packaging made from seaweed.

In Asia, loud slurping is a compliment

What is considered rude in Europe is a common sign of appreciation in many Asian countries: In China, Japan, or Korea, slurping vigorously while eating noodles shows that you enjoy it. This is considered good manners, especially with ramen or pho – and it also cools down hot broth faster.

Fun fact: In upscale restaurants in Tokyo, you can often hear a veritable “orchestra of enjoyment” while eating ramen.

The longest pizza in the world was almost 2 kilometers long

In 2017, a record was broken in California: 100 people baked a 1.93-kilometer-long pizza using a special oven system on wheels. This involved approximately 8,000 kilograms of dough and 2,000 kilograms of tomato sauce. Will the world's largest pizza box ever be produced?

Fun fact: After the Guinness World Record, the longest pizza was donated entirely to those in need.

The Big Mac Index: Fast Food as Economic Analysis

The so-called Big Mac Index , introduced by the British "Economist," has been comparing the purchasing power of different countries for several decades – based on the price of a Big Mac . The idea behind it: A product that is virtually identical worldwide shows how expensive (or cheap) a country really is.

Fun fact: In 2025, a Big Mac will cost the most on average in Switzerland (7.99 US dollars), and the least in Taiwan (2.38 US dollars).

In Sweden there is a fish that is forbidden on airplanes

Swedish surströmming is notorious: The fermented herring has an extremely strong odor—so strong that many airlines ban it. In addition to the pungent smell, there's also a certain risk of explosion during air transport! On Earth, surströmming is traditionally served in Sweden with flatbread, onions, and potatoes.

Fun fact: The can should always be opened outdoors – ideally with the wind blowing away from your face!

In Paris there is a restaurant that serves completely in the dark

The restaurant Dans le Noir? in Paris offers guests a unique experience: They dine in complete darkness, served by blind waiters and waitresses. The goal is to re-sharpen the senses, with a focus on taste, smell, and touch. This concept, which originated in France, is now available in many cities around the world.