The Food Chain

Mike Kurtz, founder of Mike's Hot Honey, shares the labor-intensive journey behind popularizing his spicy condiment. Robert Craggs, Pladis's culinary innovator, reveals how trend scouting takes them around the globe for inspiration. Chef Pierre Thiam advocates for the ancient grain fonio, highlighting its potential and cultural significance. The trio discusses the intricacies of branding and scaling food trends, predicting that health-oriented and sensory-led foods will dominate future markets, driven by social media buzz.

Join a crisp enthusiast on a flavorful journey through the origins and innovations of potato chips. Discover how fine dining in 19th-century New York sparked their popularity. Learn about quirky pairings with wine and how Asian flavors are reshaping the snack scene. Hear from experts on the impact of climate change on potato production and the industry's push for sustainable practices. Plus, savor the vibrant stories behind unique snacks like Mexico's Toasty Loco. It's a crunchy ride through taste and culture!

Courtney Peterson, an intermittent fasting researcher from Harvard, Alexandra Johnstone, a nutrition scientist at the University of Aberdeen, and Marianella Herrera, a public health nutrition professor from Venezuela, dive into the breakfast debate. They discuss the health implications of skipping breakfast and the importance of meal timing for metabolism. Cultural breakfast habits are explored alongside the challenges of maintaining nutritious diets amid rising food prices. Listeners are encouraged to rethink breakfast as a crucial part of their health and nutrition.

Rashid Sumaila, a fisheries economist from the University of British Columbia, dives into the chaotic world of bottom trawling. He reveals how this destructive fishing method threatens global fish supplies and devastates fragile ecosystems. The discussion touches on overfishing and prevalence of illegal catches, while highlighting the struggles of small-scale fishers. Stock depletions impact communities, especially in West Africa, where local fisheries face severe challenges from industrial trawlers. It's a call to action for sustainable fishing practices.

Maggie Beer, an acclaimed Australian restaurateur and Senior Australian of the Year, discusses her pivotal role in founding the Maggie Beer Foundation to enhance food quality in aged care. She shares her insights on the inadequate diets in care homes and the need for culinary training. Ronald Marshall highlights ways to connect with loved ones through food preferences, while Navgot Gill Chawla emphasizes the importance of culturally appropriate meals. Together, they advocate for nutritious, enjoyable dining experiences to improve residents' quality of life.

Bahi van der Boer, a London-based dietitian, and Robin Cherry, author of 'Garlic, an Edible Biography,' explore the fascinating world of garlic. They discuss garlic's historic role from ancient cultures to modern kitchens, while highlighting its culinary significance and medicinal properties. The conversation uncovers myths surrounding garlic in Indian cuisine and examines conflicting research on its health benefits, particularly for gut health. Listeners will enjoy anecdotes that celebrate garlic’s versatility and its enduring allure across cultures.

In this enlightening discussion, Professor Christy Tangney, co-creator of the MIND diet, Professor Anne-Marie Minihane from the University of East Anglia, and dietitian Lizette Kuhn from Pretoria explore how diet impacts brain health and dementia prevention. They highlight the MIND diet's benefits and essential foods like omega-3s and leafy greens that boost cognition. The trio dives into challenges healthcare professionals face in promoting nutritious habits over fad diets. Their insights on practical dietary changes offer valuable guidance for anyone looking to enhance cognitive health.

Jo Bonser, a consultant at Dignified Dining, shares her insights on nurturing mealtimes for individuals with dementia, drawing from her own experience caring for her mother. She discusses the emotional and practical challenges that caregivers face and highlights how cooking together can create meaningful connections. Personal anecdotes illustrate the importance of nostalgia in food preferences and the strategies that can enhance the dining experience. Listeners will gain valuable tips on fostering engaging environments that respect dignity while simultaneously supporting loved ones.

In this engaging conversation, Shailaja Paik, a historian at the University of Cincinnati, dives deep into the intersection of India's caste system and food culture. She shares compelling stories of the Dalit community, highlighting how social stigma shapes dietary choices and communal eating practices. The podcast explores innovative Dalit recipes born from necessity and the emotional ties to culinary traditions. Personal anecdotes illuminate the discrimination faced by Dalit chefs, as well as the ongoing battle for dignity and inclusivity in the food industry.

Melissa Guida-Richards, an adoption educator and author from Colombia, shares her personal journey of finding her heritage through food. Katja Rowell, a former family doctor and feeding expert, provides insights into the challenges adoptive and foster parents face regarding children's eating habits. They discuss the importance of mealtimes in creating a sense of safety and belonging for children entering care. Combining emotional narratives with practical strategies, the conversation tackles issues like food insecurity and trauma's impact on relationships with food.