

Is my yoghurt really alive?
6 snips May 16, 2025
Nazko Stamanov, a Bulgarian science teacher and communicator, dives into the fascinating world of yogurt and fermentation. He discusses whether the ‘live’ cultures in yogurt are still alive when consumed and the health benefits of traditional foods vs. processed options. The conversation explores the cultural pride of Bulgarian yogurt, the risks associated with eating moldy cheese, and how a simple drop of vanilla can flavor an entire liter of milk. Expect delicious insights and a humorous take on food science!
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Health Benefits of Traditional Foods
- Traditional fermented foods like Bulgarian yogurt have scientifically proven health benefits including improving gut health and potentially reducing risks of various diseases.
- The unique bacteria in these foods help restore the microbiome and support nutrition effectively.
Sweetness Drives Food Preference
- Humans are evolutionarily wired to prefer sweet foods because sweetness signals fast and high energy.
- This preference explains why chocolate is often favored over healthier but less consistent-tasting options like fruit.
Bacteria Define Yogurt Flavor
- The combination and ratio of specific bacteria species, Lactobacillus delbrueckii subsp. bulgaricus and Streptococcus thermophilus, determine Bulgarian yogurt's taste and texture.
- These bacteria live in symbiosis and cannot survive well separately, affecting yogurt quality.