Topic: Food History

5 chapters across the catalog

Dead Feathered
Episode 1795 1:01:20 - 1:06:31

1795: Dead Feathered

History of Food Coloring, Sam's Club Ingredient Pledge

The history of food dyeing is traced back to railroads and competition between Florida and California orange farmers. Walmart's Sam's Club has pledged to remove artificial dyes and high fructose corn syrup from its private labels, though developers struggle to replicate vivid colors using natural sources like beets and algae. The hosts discuss the psychological impact of food color on perceived taste and the difficulty of masking savory flavors in natural dyes.

Where's Munchunts?
Episode 1449 1:55:50 - 1:59:32

1449: Where's Munchunts?

Diesel Prices, Nostradamus Famine Predictions

Diesel fuel prices have reached $6.00 to $9.00 per gallon in some areas, threatening the food delivery system. The History Channel aired a segment on Nostradamus, claiming he predicted a global famine that would lead to societal collapse and "man eating his fellow man."

Climate Crisis Special
Episode 1336 1:45:25 - 1:46:55

1336: Climate Crisis Special

Geological Degassing, Carbon Dioxide as Plant Food

A geologist explains that the Earth has been "degassing" carbon dioxide for over 4.5 billion years and that current levels (0.04%) are dangerously low. He argues that CO2 is essential "plant food" rather than a pollutant, noting that halving the current amount would kill all terrestrial plants. The speaker points out that historical sea level changes have been as large as 1,500 meters, far exceeding modern variations.

Fudged
Episode 1114 2:43:24 - 2:44:40

1114: Fudged

Kraft Macaroni and Cheese, Depression Era History

A Jeopardy clip revealed that Kraft Macaroni and Cheese was introduced in 1937 as a Depression-era convenience food. The product combined pasta and processed cheese in a single box for 50 cents. The hosts briefly discussed the longevity and health perceptions of the iconic American food product.

Vasectomies & Dogs
Episode 1011 3:04:24 - 3:10:49

1011: Vasectomies & Dogs

NYU Black History Month Menu Controversy

New York University apologized and fired two food service employees after a Black History Month menu featured ribs, collard greens, and watermelon-flavored water. The school deemed the menu "racially insensitive," despite the items being traditional staples. The episode concludes with a final sign-off and a musical mix featuring Justin Trudeau's "peoplekind" comments.