Food Bites: The Science of the Foods We Eat is a book that delves into the scientific aspects of food, covering topics such as moisture content in cereal, particle size in ice cream, and the nutrition of tomatoes. It is written by Richard W. Hartel and his daughter AnnaKate Hartel, offering a broad introduction to food science through short, accessible chapters.
Fun Foods of America delves into the vibrant history of fun foods, from their role in domestic life to their influence during wartime and their transformation by corporate interests. The book includes recipes and interviews with diverse individuals, offering insights into how fun foods have shaped American culture. It also directs readers to historical cookbooks and images from events like the World Fairs.
Licorice opinions! War chocolate! Candy corn origins, circus peanut secrets, the sourest sourballs, and your great aunt’s purse. Stay until the very end for the biggest shocked laugh I have ever had on this show. The incredibly charming author, journalist, candy historian, and Confectiologist Susan Benjamin chats about everything from apothecary origin stories, ethnobotany, having horehound on hand, the warheads that could save you, vegan candy controversy, sugar sources from beets to corn, Turkish temptations, Roman flim-flam, marzipan mini-sculptures, sugar plum ballets, what she gives out for Halloween candy. and the best way to enjoy treats if you're trying to stay healthy. An absolute instant classic.
Visit Susan Benjamin’s historic candy company True Treats
Buy Susan’s latest book, Fun Foods of America: Outrageous Delights, Celebrated Brands, and Iconic Recipes, on Amazon or Bookshop.org
A donation went to Animal Welfare Society of Jefferson County
More episode sources and links
Smologies (short, classroom-safe) episodes
Other episodes you may enjoy: Gustology (TASTE), Molecular Neurobiology (BRAIN CHEMICALS), Carobology (NOT-CHOCOLATE TREES), Glycobiology (CARBS), Diabetology (BLOOD SUGAR), Melittology (BEES), Native Melittology (INDIGENOUS BEES), Columbidology (PIGEONS? YES), Felinology (CATS), Attention-Deficit Neuropsychology (ADHD), FIELD TRIP: My Butt, a Colonoscopy Ride Along & How-To, Nephology (CLOUDS)
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Editing by Mercedes Maitland of Maitland Audio Productions and Jacob Chaffee
Managing Director: Susan Hale
Scheduling Producer: Noel Dilworth
Transcripts by Aveline Malek
Website by Kelly R. Dwyer
Theme song by Nick Thorburn
Ologies with Alie Ward 
