Gastropod
Cynthia Graber and Nicola Twilley
Food with a side of science and history. Every other week, co-hosts Cynthia Graber and Nicola Twilley serve up a brand new episode exploring the hidden history and surprising science behind a different food- or farming-related topic, from aquaculture to ancient feasts, from cutlery to chile peppers, and from microbes to Malbec. We interview experts, visit labs, fields, and archaeological digs, and generally have lots of fun while discovering new ways to think about and understand the world through food. Find us online at gastropod.com, follow us on Twitter @gastropodcast, and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/gastropodcast.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 17, 2024 • 43min
Smashing Pumpkin Myths: What's Big, Orange, and Having an Identity Crisis?
This week dives into the quirky world of pumpkins and squashes, revealing their rich history as the first domesticated plants in the Americas. Experience the thrill of giant pumpkin competitions, where growers push the limits to produce record-breaking gourds. Discover how pumpkins evolved from staples to symbols of American identity, especially in Thanksgiving traditions. The hosts also connect cultural significance with culinary practices, making you rethink these iconic fall favorites.
12 snips
Sep 10, 2024 • 44min
Meet the Queen of Kiwi: The 96-Year-Old Woman Who Transformed America's Produce Aisle (ENCORE)
Frieda Caplan, the 96-year-old Queen of Kiwi, is a culinary pioneer who transformed the American produce aisle by introducing exotic fruits and vegetables. She shares her journey of overcoming skepticism to educate consumers about delightful items like the kiwi and sugar snap peas. Listeners will discover her innovative marketing strategies, the legacy of her family's specialty produce warehouse, and the fascinating challenges of selling unique produce. Her story is a celebration of diversity and the adventurous spirit of modern eating.
30 snips
Sep 3, 2024 • 49min
Deli is Short For Delicious—But Are Your Pastrami and Bologna Sandwiches Giving You Cancer?
Join chef Jeremy Omansky, a charcuterie expert, and author David Sachs, who unveils the history of delicatessens. Discover the surprising origins of beloved deli meats and their cultural significance in America. The conversation dives into the health controversies surrounding processed meats after a WHO warning. Learn about the evolution of pastrami and Jewish deli traditions, and the innovative techniques, including 'meat glue,' transforming meat processing. It's a delicious blend of culinary history and modern food science!
26 snips
Aug 20, 2024 • 53min
What's the Buzz on Eating Bugs? Can Insects Really Save the World?
Insects may hold the key to a sustainable future as a food source, yet cultural stigma still prevails. From cicadas' unique flavor profiles to the delicious chapulinas, the culinary potential of bugs is explored. The podcast highlights Madagascar's 'bacon bug' initiative, aiding food security while delighting taste buds. It addresses the complexities of promoting edible insects and the rising interest in Western markets. The conversation debunks myths around entomophagy, pondering whether bugs can indeed save the world—or if we've just lost our appetite for them.
Aug 6, 2024 • 39min
The Billion Dollar War Behind U.S. Rum (Planet Money)
Discover the surprising federal tax system that directs rum taxes to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, generating over $700 million annually. Dive into the intense rivalry sparked by the U.S. Virgin Islands' successful lure of Captain Morgan from Puerto Rico. The narrative unfolds the fierce competition over rum production, highlighting political tensions and economic consequences. Explore how these tax laws and legislative maneuvers create a complex battle that significantly impacts local communities and big liquor companies alike.
Jul 23, 2024 • 60min
The Interstitium (Radiolab)
Exploring the discovery of the interstitium, a hidden fluid system challenging traditional anatomy views. The podcast discusses its potential role in cancer research and its connection to ancient medical practices. The episode highlights the importance of embracing diverse medical traditions and the mystery of cancer metastasis.
4 snips
Jul 9, 2024 • 48min
Are Hush Puppies Racist? Is A2 Milk Really Healthier? And What's Up With Wedding Cake? Ask Gastropod!
Delve into the origins of hush puppies and wedding cakes, and explore the benefits of A2 milk for dairy-intolerant individuals. Discover the fascinating history and debunked myths behind these culinary topics with the help of experts. Listen in now for enlightening insights!
23 snips
Jun 25, 2024 • 52min
Why Does Everyone Have Food Allergies These Days?
Discover the escalating rates of food allergies globally, from adults to pets. Unravel the mysteries of why our bodies react to essential foods, the differences between allergies and intolerances, and the historical roots of allergic responses. Dive into the genetic and environmental influences on food allergies, explore rising trends and potential solutions, and learn about managing the complexities of allergic reactions.
14 snips
Jun 18, 2024 • 52min
The Bagelization of America (encore)
Explore the cultural significance of bagels, their history in Jewish culture, and the evolution of bagel production in America. Uncover the origins of lox and cream cheese in Jewish cuisine, along with the unconventional marketing tactics that popularized bagels in the US. Delve into the passion and variety of bagels in America, from unique flavors to regional preferences.
40 snips
Jun 11, 2024 • 49min
The Birth of Cool: How Refrigeration Changed Everything
Discover the fascinating journey of refrigeration from ice houses to modern kitchens. Learn about high school dropouts, deadly explosions, and how cold boxes changed food preservation and the planet. Explore innovative fruit preservation techniques and the environmental impact of refrigeration technology. Is there a better way to preserve food? Listen to find out!
