Brian Reinhart

Willa Paskin, host of Slate's Decoder Ring, brings insight alongside food critic Brian Reinhart and journalist Gustavo Arellano to unravel the mystery of the declining spice in jalapeños. Reinhart shares his personal experiences and research about how grocery store jalapeños have become milder over time. The trio explores the cultural shift in American cuisine, the impact on the salsa industry, and the challenges faced by growers. They delve into the oscillating popularity of Mexican food in the U.S., critically examining how tastes have evolved.