Sliced Bread

Could 'smart' clothing monitor our health?Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show 'Sliced Bread', now brings you 'Dough'.Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.This episode examines the future of our clothing.How can manufacturers dye clothes without using water? Could 'smart' fabrics monitor weather conditions and provide extra warmth or cooling when we need it? Will our body movements, instead of bulky batteries, provide the power for clothing to monitor our health? Will synthetic material be completely replaced by natural fibres and those made from waste products? Greg is joined by the futurist, Tracey Follows, and expert guests Dr Marie O'Mahony, programme leader for E-textiles and Wearable Technologies at the Winchester School of Art at the University of Southampton and Jenny Prendergast, Programme Leader for Fashion and Design Technology at Loughborough University.This episode was produced by Jay Unger.Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds

Could your future home be built by a robot bricklayer?Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show 'Sliced Bread', now brings you 'Dough'.Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.This episode examines the future of UK housebuilding.Will new homes be cheaper to run and built to a higher standard? What potential do robots have to build quality homes quickly and cheaply? Could building homes with bricks become a thing of the past? Might 3D printing homes with concrete be a realistic alternative? And will factories play a bigger part in meeting the demand for new housing?Alongside Greg is the futurist Tom Cheesewright and expert guests including Prof. Richard Fitton, Professor of Building Performance at the University of Salford and Salar al Khafaji, the CEO and founder of Monumental which builds autonomous on-site construction robots. Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Will delivery drones and robots make popping to the shops a thing of the past?Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show 'Sliced Bread', now brings you 'Dough'.Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.This episode looks at the future of home parcel delivery. One of the UK's biggest parcel delivery companies, Evri, explains why its trial of a robot delivery 'dog' will not spell the end for human couriers. A service already delivering coffee and groceries by drone in part of Dublin outlines its plans to take off in the UK.And Greg hears how looking to the past may improve home deliveries in future by making more of our inland waterways and rail network.Alongside Greg, delivering her expertise, is the futurist Tracey Follows and expert guests including:-Craig Noonan, UK Director of Communications and Brand at Evri -Alan Hicks, Chief Technology Officer at Manna Drone Delivery -Michelle Gardner, Deputy Director of Policy at the trade association, Logistics UKProduced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Tom Cheesewright, a renowned futurist with experience consulting for major car manufacturers, dives into the evolution of automotive technology. He discusses how electric vehicles could reshape transportation before 2030 and the potential of hydrogen as a fuel alternative. Cheesewright highlights the rise of smart cars equipped with real-time updates and app integrations, as well as the challenges faced by autonomous vehicles in gaining regulatory approval. The conversation also touches on the exciting future of vehicle-to-infrastructure communication, possibly leading to smarter traffic management.

Join Andrew Loughlin, a principal researcher at Which, and Emmeline Taylor, a criminology professor, as they explore the fascinating world of smart doorbells. They dissect essential features like camera resolution and installation challenges. The conversation dives into privacy concerns, comparing cloud storage versus local recording for footage. They also discuss the contentious impact of these devices on crime rates, emphasizing the need for ongoing technological improvements. Will smart doorbells truly enhance home security, or are they overhyped?

In this engaging discussion, Paul Elliott, a Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health Medicine at Imperial College London, dives into the health effects of various salts. He breaks down the astonishing differences between refined and unrefined salts and reveals the hidden sodium in processed foods. The episode highlights the essential role of iodized salt for iodine intake and contrasts premium salts with standard options. Elliott also advocates for potassium-enriched salts as a healthier choice, making listeners rethink their salt habits for better health.

Michelle Wong, a chemist and science communicator from Sydney, shares her expertise on the science behind beauty products, while Nyla Dinani, a consultant dermatologist, provides insights into nail health. They dive into the chemistry of nail polish, discussing ingredients like polymers and plasticizers. The risks of gel manicures, including UV exposure and allergic reactions, are examined. Additionally, they explore the differences between traditional nail polish and gel alternatives, highlighting safe application techniques and the truth behind marketing claims.

In this engaging discussion, Chris McCarthy, a clinical fellow from Manchester Metropolitan University, and Stacey Clemmis, a professor at Loughborough University, delve into the world of standing desks. They explore the benefits of reducing sedentary time, emphasizing improved posture and productivity. The duo offers practical tips on integrating more movement into the workday, while also examining affordable alternatives like treadmill desks and wobble boards. Listeners will gain insights into the perks and pitfalls of various desk solutions, making informed choices for healthier work habits.

In this enlightening discussion, Kath Noakes, an environmental engineering professor at the University of Leeds, and Richard Fitton, a building performance professor at the University of Salford, explore the real capabilities of dehumidifiers. They dive into how humidity levels affect indoor air quality and share insights on the best types of dehumidifiers, including eco-friendly options. Listeners learn practical tips for maximizing effectiveness, like optimal placement for drying clothes and preventing mold. It's a must-listen for anyone curious about maintaining a healthier home!

Which chopping board material is best for hygiene and the planet?Greg Foot gathers the experts, dives into the data and crunches the numbers to get answers for listener Simon.Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT