Dan Saladino

Join food journalist Dan Saladino, who authored 'Eating to Extinction,' Sarah Nguyen, founder of Nguyen Coffee Supply, and Bloomberg's Javier Blas for an insightful discussion on coffee's complex journey. They delve into the recent surge in coffee prices, influenced by climate change and tariffs. The conversation highlights the vital importance of sourcing, especially for Vietnamese Robusta, and the impact on smaller roasters. Discover how global trade dynamics shape your daily cup and the ecological implications tied to coffee consumption.

In this engaging discussion, food researcher Dan Saladino takes us on a journey through a unique library in Belgium that showcases sourdough starters from around the globe. He highlights the fascinating microbial relationships that influence sourdough's flavor and health benefits. Saladino shares personal stories connecting sourdough to cultural history and communal baking, as well as its recent renaissance in the culinary world. Dive into the rich biodiversity of ingredients that not only elevate baking but also promote environmental sustainability and public health.

Professor James Dale, a leading geneticist at Queensland University of Technology, shares insights on genetically modified bananas designed to fight Panama disease. Fernando Garcia Bastidas, head of the Yellow Whey Banana Breeding Program, discusses traditional breeding methods and their role in developing resistant banana varieties. BBC journalist Dan Saladino highlights the biodiversity of over 1,500 banana types, stressing the risks of monoculture. Together, they emphasize the urgent need for innovative solutions to safeguard this essential fruit against extinction.

Sheila Dillon, Leyla Kazim, and Dan Saladino choose their favorite food books of 2023, discuss the rise of Korean cuisine, and explore the changing landscape of cookbooks. They also debate the impact of TikTok on recipe books and discuss the significance of food books in the digital era.

Dan Saladino, a food journalist and author of "Eating to Extinction," shares captivating tales about rare foods and cultures. He delves into the alarming loss of biodiversity, revealing stories like the last soybean garden and unique 16-foot corn that produces its own fertilizer. Saladino emphasizes the importance of preserving culinary heritage against globalization's tide. Listeners are taken on a journey through the histories of traditional farming practices and the intricate relationships between people and nature, highlighting the urgency to protect diverse flavors before they vanish.