Sliced Bread

Why was the video sharing platform, Vine, closed down?Sean Farrington discovers what happened to the app which pioneered short, shareable videos on social media. Sean speaks to one of Vine's founders, Rus Yusupov, the Vine content creator, Eric Dunn, and the BBC's Technology Editor, Zoe Kleinman.Alongside them all analysing Vine's fortunes is the self-made millionaire and serial entrepreneur, Sam White.Produced by Viant Siddique. Toast is a BBC Audio North production for Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.You can email the programme at toast@bbc.co.ukFeel free to suggest topics which could be covered in future episodes.Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in May. In the new series, Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread. In the meantime, Toast is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds.

Why did the restaurant chain, Little Chef, disappear from our roadsides? Sean Farrington discovers what happened to the brand which brought us Jubilee Pancakes, Olympic Breakfasts and free lollies for the kids. At its peak, Little Chef had over 400 restaurants on most of our major highways and a turnover well in excess of £100m. So, how did such a successful business ultimately end up toast? Sean speaks to Fiona Alper who was married to the Little Chef co-founder, Sam Alper; the entrepreneur, Lawrence Wosskow, who once owned Little Chef and Becky Parr-Phillips who started as a waitress but rose through the ranks to become Little Chef's head of operations. Alongside them all to analyse Little Chef's fortunes is the self-made millionaire and serial entrepreneur, Sam White. This episode was first broadcast in April 2024Produced by Jon Douglas. Toast is a BBC Audio North production for Radio 4 and BBC Sounds. You can email the programme at toast@bbc.co.ukFeel free to suggest topics which could be covered in future episodes. Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in May. In the new series, Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread. In the meantime, Toast is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds.

Delving into the world of mushroom coffee and medicinal mushrooms like lion's mane and reishi, the podcast explores the potential health benefits and controversies surrounding these products. From claims of relaxation to disease-fighting properties, the discussion highlights the lack of scientific evidence supporting these claims. It also touches on the gut health benefits of mushrooms and the ongoing debate on the efficacy of mushroom-based products in enhancing overall well-being.

Join Professor Rainer Stamminger as he sheds light on the age-old debate of hand washing vs. dishwashers. Learn about efficient dishwashing methods, equipment features, and the environmental impact of both options. Discover tips on arranging dishwasher items and the effectiveness of eco settings. Explore the mechanics of dishwashers, including the role of enzymes, energy savings, and environmental considerations. Dive into a study comparing water and energy consumption, and debate the pros and cons of pre-rinsing dishes. Uncover unconventional dishwashing methods and intriguing facts about energy efficiency and quirky tips for plate pre-soaking.

Greg explores the effectiveness of TENS machines for pain relief and investigates circulation boosters. He talks to a professor who has studied TENS devices for 40 years. The podcast discusses the science behind TENS technology, differences between poor circulation in arteries and veins, and the controversy over the efficacy of circulation boosters for pain relief.

Exploring the popularity of various plant-based milk alternatives like soy, almond, oat, hazelnut, hemp, and dried pea. Discussing the health benefits and environmental impact compared to cow's milk. The chapter also focuses on lactose intolerance and protein content in milk alternatives. Highlighting the importance of fortification in plant-based milk and concerns about additives. Previewing upcoming podcast topics on mummies and magic.

Millions of us use fitness tracker watches to count how many steps we take each day - they also claim to tell us how we're sleeping and how stressed we are, as well as a host of other metrics. But how accurate are they - and are they the best thing since Sliced Bread? We've had loads of requests from you to look into fitness trackers. So with multiple watches on each arm, Greg's being put through his paces at Loughborough University under the watchful eye of Dr James Sanders, senior research associate in digital health for lifestyle.PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: TOM MOSELEY

Delving into the world of cookware, this podcast explores the different materials and coatings used in pots and pans. From the safety concerns of non-stick coatings to temperature control and the presence of PFAS in everyday products, the discussion offers insights on choosing the right kitchen pans.

Gum disease is extremely common in dogs - with some breeds particularly badly affected. So it's no surprise there are all sorts of products on the market offering to clean your pet's teeth - which might be particularly appealing if you don't fancy grabbing a toothbrush and doing the job yourself. As well as chews of many shapes and sizes, there are additives to water - and even seaweed extract to sprinkle on their food. It's a serious business. We've had loads of emails asking us to look into this one - including from listener Sarah, who wants help on behalf of Heidi, her Miniature Schnauzer. To get them some answers, Greg hears from a pet nutritionist and a vet who's an expert in dental care. Are dog dental chews the best thing since sliced bread?PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: TOM MOSELEY

The podcast investigates the effectiveness and value of expensive face creams, focusing on specific ingredients like retinol and niacinamide. They explore the benefits of these ingredients and discuss the controversy surrounding the high price of 'Creme de la Mer'. The episode concludes by providing recommendations for creating a great skincare routine at any budget.