Samantha King

Guests Samantha King and Gavin Weedon, experts in kinesiology and sociology, delve into the historical allure of protein. They explore the fascinating origins of protein marketing, tracing back to Justus von Liebig's groundbreaking theories in the 19th century. Discussion includes early protein products like beef extract and the rise of bodybuilding culture that propelled whey to fame. They highlight how protein trends recycle through history, questioning whether today's obsession will sustain as they reflect on nutrition's ever-changing landscape.

Join Samantha King, a kinesiology professor and co-author of 'Protein: The Making of a Nutritional Superstar', along with Gavin Whedon, a sociology expert focusing on sport and health. They dive into America's fixation with protein, exploring its historical booms and cultural significance. Discover how protein's journey spans from 19th-century meat extracts to today's protein-fortified foods. They also discuss the misconceptions around protein needs and how bodybuilding culture helped shape modern protein trends, creating an ever-growing market.

Samantha King, a Kinesiology Professor at Queen's University, and Gavin Weedon, a sociology expert on sport and health, delve into America's protein obsession. They explore protein's fascinating history, revealing that our current craze is just one of many over the past two centuries. From Justus von Liebig's beef extract to the rise of whey powder in bodybuilding, they discuss how protein has transitioned from a niche remedy to a mainstream superstar. The duo also touches on cultural perceptions and the enduring belief in protein's power to unite diverse social groups.