Chloee Weiner

Chloe Weiner, a producer for the Short Wave podcast, joins host Emily Kwong to delve into the fascinating journey of umami's recognition as the fifth taste. They discuss the groundbreaking discovery by Dr. Kikunai Ikeda and the slow embrace of this savory flavor over the century. The conversation also unpacks the cultural perceptions of monosodium glutamate (MSG), exploring its contentious history and impact on American cuisine. Listeners gain insight into how umami reshapes our taste experiences and culinary traditions.

Chloee Weiner, a producer for the podcast, dives into the fascinating world of umami, the fifth taste, first identified by Japanese chemist Dr. Kikunai Ikeda. She discusses its slow rise to recognition, alongside the historical embrace and backlash of MSG in American cuisine. Chloee shares personal experiences with umami-rich dishes and explores how cultural biases have shaped perceptions of flavors. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding diverse culinary perspectives in embracing umami and its complexities.