Making a game of good eating

Turns out it's OK to play with your food.

Three new food-centric games aim to make mealtime -- or at least talking about it -- fun.

"Foodie Fight" (18.95) is a simple, culinary trivia game in which players answer a variety of questions (such as "What shape is a Japanese tamago omelet pan?), trying to be the first to get a set number of correct answers. (Answer: It's square)

For more involved play, there is "Celebrity Chef! The Game" ($29.95), in which players compete to become a star chef by answering questions to earn fans, cookbook offers, restaurants, press and the all-important television show.

And to make a game out of healthy eating for the kids, there is "Play with your Food" (14.99). Aimed at the toddler set, this game includes a divided plate printed with different animals in each section and a spinner with corresponding pictures.

The idea is to prepare a healthy meal, arranging different foods in each section. Children then hit the spinner and eat according to where it lands (such as eat a bite from the cow section). There also a transportation-themed version.