'A Bite of China' launches production of Season 3
舌尖上的中国推出第三季

'A Bite of China,' the widely praised TV documentary series, is set to return with Season Three. After its critically acclaimed Season 1 in 2012 and slightly controversial Season 2 in 2014, producer Chen Xiaoqing confirmed the launch of production of Season 3 in a recent roadshow of CCTV's documentary channel.

A documentary centering on the history of Chinese cuisines, ‘A Bite of China’ gained rave reviews when its first season aired in 2012. The series traveled to more than 60 locations in the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong, and Taiwan, aiming to introduce viewers to different kinds of delicacies and cuisines.

After a much-delayed, controversial Season 2 that stirred debates about stealing ideas and odd storytelling, the show has re-calibrated its goal.

"Without a doubt, Chinese food makes Chinese people proud in the global context. But if we could make a documentary that helps people from other cultures understand Chinese food in their local context, it would bring a greater impact around the world," producer Chen Xiaoqing said.

The new season aims to be more international in its approach to Chinese food and the people behind it, rather than showing just the dishes and their preparation.

The successful first two seasons of ‘A Bite of China’ have gotten people to become interested in China's documentary market and stimulated the sales of food featured in the series, including Sichuan bacon, Linzhi honey and hand-made noodles from Shaanxi province.