Japan's menu scandal leaves a bitter taste

Fishermen packing fish caught 50km off the coast of Soma port in Fukushima prefecture. Japan has asked the World Trade Organisation to step into a row over Seoul's import ban on fish caught in waters near the crippled Fukushima nuclear plant. - AFP

Thousands of diners duped into paying high prices for faux premium ingredients at top hotels and restaurants.

IT began with a bogus scallop, but a menu scandal that has engulfed some of Japan’s most prestigious hotels and department stores now threatens to undermine the international reputation of the country’s vaunted cuisine.