

Gastropod
Cynthia Graber and Nicola Twilley
Food with a side of science and history. Every other week, co-hosts Cynthia Graber and Nicola Twilley serve up a brand new episode exploring the hidden history and surprising science behind a different food- or farming-related topic, from aquaculture to ancient feasts, from cutlery to chile peppers, and from microbes to Malbec. We interview experts, visit labs, fields, and archaeological digs, and generally have lots of fun while discovering new ways to think about and understand the world through food. Find us online at gastropod.com, follow us on Twitter @gastropodcast, and like us on Facebook at facebook.com/gastropodcast.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jan 9, 2024 • 45min
It's Tea Time: Pirates, Polyphenols, and a Proper Cuppa (encore)
The podcast explores the history and global trade of tea, from its origins in China to its introduction to Europe. It delves into the daring adventure of Robert Fortune as he smuggled tea plants out of China, overcoming pirates and intellectual property theft. The podcast also discusses the journey of tea from India to Cornwall, England, and the challenges of growing tea in the British climate. It concludes with the story of Fortune's Double Yellow rose and a hint about the next episode.

Dec 19, 2023 • 51min
The Case of the Confusing Bitter Beverages: Vermouth, Amaro, Aperitivos, and Other Botanical Schnapps
This episode of 'Gastropod' explores the confusing world of bitter beverages, including vermouth, amaro, and aperitifs. The hosts discuss the origins and differences of these drinks, as well as the use of botanicals. They also delve into the history and versatility of bitters in cocktails and cooking. The podcast expresses gratitude to listeners and sponsors, and introduces a sponsor named Viator.

6 snips
Dec 5, 2023 • 52min
Rice, Rice Baby
Explore the significance of rice as a staple food globally and its role in shaping communities. Discover the challenges faced by rice growers in California and the efforts to breed flood-tolerant rice. Uncover the dark history of rice related to slavery in America and the potential for black farmers to lead an innovative revolution. Understand the importance of cooperation in rice farming and African American history.

Nov 21, 2023 • 45min
Ask Gastropod: White Chocolate, Jimmies, Chile vs. Mustard Burns, and Asparagus Pee
Guests include historians and scientists who bust myths and solve mysteries about food. They explore topics such as white chocolate's authenticity, the origins of 'jimmies' for sprinkles, the burning sensation of chili peppers vs horseradish, and the science behind asparagus pee.

Nov 7, 2023 • 42min
Pumpkin Spice Hero: The Thrilling But Tragic True Story of Nutmeg
Explore the fascinating history of nutmeg and its significance, including its rarity and origins on small islands. Learn about the risks faced by sailors in the nutmeg trade, including shipwrecks and battles. Delve into the tragic story of Nathaniel Court and the conflicts surrounding nutmeg trade. Discover the historical background of how New York City was once New Amsterdam and the significance of a small nutmeg island called Run. Experience the enchanting beauty of the Bander Islands and the delightful aroma of nutmeg.

6 snips
Oct 24, 2023 • 49min
Beans, Beans, the Magical Fruit
The podcast explores the origins and decline of beans, their historical significance, and cultural differences in bean consumption. It discusses the connection between beans and flatulence and highlights efforts to promote beans as a vegetable. The rise of specialty beans, such as Rancho Gordo, is also explored, along with the challenges and innovations related to beans, including shorter cooking time and reduced flatulence.

Oct 10, 2023 • 48min
Raised and Glazed: Don’t Doubt the Doughnut
This podcast explores the history and cultural significance of doughnuts, including their origins in different cultures and their association with holidays. It also discusses the success of Cambodian American indie donut shops in California and the cultural significance of donuts in America.

7 snips
Sep 26, 2023 • 49min
We'd Like to Teach The World to Slurp: The Weird and Wonderful Story of Ramen's Rise to Glory
Learn about the fascinating history of ramen, from its Chinese origins to its transformation in Japan. Discover how ramen became a popular and affordable source of nourishment after WWII. Explore the rise of instant ramen and its global impact. Hear a heartwarming story about the calming power of ramen in a prison. Uncover the individual style and playfulness of ramen and its addictive nature.

Sep 19, 2023 • 50min
First Foods: Learning to Eat (encore)
Discover the history of baby food and how it has evolved over time. Learn about the fascinating process of taste development in babies and how it is influenced by genetics and maternal diet. Explore strategies for introducing new foods to children, including the 'tiny tastes' method. Uncover the influence of environment on children's food choices and the challenges parents face in promoting healthy eating habits. Find out about the rigged nature of a science experiment on children's food preferences.

Sep 5, 2023 • 46min
All Aboard the Tuna Rollercoaster! Join the King of Fish for a Wild Ride that Involves Ernest Hemingway and (of course) Jane Fonda
Discover the fascinating history and unique features of bluefin tuna, from its ancient significance to recent endangerment. Explore its rise and decline in popularity, the efforts to protect and recover its populations, and the positive shift in consuming Atlantic Bluffin.