Brian Wansink: Guess Who’s Conning to Dinner | 146
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Feb 17, 2025
Explore the rise and fall of Brian Wansink, the 'food psychologist' whose questionable research practices sparked major controversy. Dive into the flaws of misleading studies like those comparing calorie counts in well-known cookbooks. Hear about the impact of sensationalism in culinary science and the ethical dilemmas surrounding academic integrity. Discover the tension between public recognition and health concerns in nutrition, while advocating for a more mindful approach to food amidst prevalent misinformation.
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question_answer ANECDOTE
Joy of Cooking Controversy
John Becker, editor of Joy of Cooking, discovered Brian Wansink misrepresented his family's cookbook.
Wansink's study falsely claimed Joy of Cooking contributed to obesity by increasing calorie counts in newer editions.
insights INSIGHT
Early Influences
Brian Wansink developed an interest in food and consumer behavior early on, selling vegetables door-to-door as a child.
This experience sparked his curiosity about influencing people's food choices.
question_answer ANECDOTE
The Power of "Cool Data"
Wansink struggled academically, finding traditional research boring and unfulfilling.
He realized that "cool data" and compelling narratives could advance his career and influence a wider audience.
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A Compilation of Reliable Recipes with a Casual Culinary Chat
Marion Rombauer Becker
Irma S. Rombauer
The Joy of Cooking, initially self-published by Irma S. Rombauer in 1931, has become a cornerstone of American cooking. The book was compiled from recipes Rombauer perfected as a homemaker, cooking class teacher, and hostess. It features a conversational style, making it accessible to middle-class home cooks. The cookbook includes a wide range of recipes, from basic dishes to more complex preparations, along with practical advice on cooking techniques and etiquette. Over the years, it has been revised and expanded, with the latest edition in 2019 including modern cooking techniques and new recipes developed by John Becker and Megan Scott, Irma's great-grandson and his wife.
Mindless Eating
Why We Eat More Than We Think
Brian Wansink
Brian Wansink's 'Mindless Eating' explores the psychological factors that influence our food consumption. The book reveals how environmental cues, portion sizes, and packaging design can lead to overeating without our conscious awareness. Wansink presents research findings and practical strategies to help readers make healthier food choices. He emphasizes the importance of mindful eating and understanding the subtle influences that shape our eating habits. The book's insights are valuable for anyone seeking to improve their diet and relationship with food.
Slim by Design
Brian Wansink
During the early 2000s Brian Wansink made his mark as a “food psychologist” with quirky studies backed by the USDA and Cornell. His research led to the 100-calorie snack pack, the side plate for dinner, and the idea that Elmo stickers led kids to eat healthier. But one tone-deaf blog post led a pack of scientists to dig into Brian’s data. What they found was a hunt for bite-size takeaways, a lack of ethical rigor… and a whole lotta junk science.
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