Shows
The Science That Feeds UsIs Red Dye #40 Safe? The Science Behind Artificial Food ColoringIn this episode, Dr. Lynette Johnston joins us to explore the science, use, and safety of one of the most common artificial food colors: red dye #40. Dr. Johnston explains where this dye shows up in our everyday lives, and why it is used so extensively in our food system. We discuss how the FDA regulates artificial dyes, what current research says about potential health effects, and how dose, context, and individual sensitivities play a role in understanding risk. She also dives into natural alternatives, their limitations, and how cost, stability, and consumer expectations influence which dyes food companies choose...
2025-11-0732 minThe Science That Feeds UsSugar Showdown: High Fructose Corn Syrup vs. Cane SugarIn this episode, we sat down with Dr. Basheerah Enahora to unpack the science and controversy behind two of the most debated sweeteners in our food system: high fructose corn syrup and cane sugar. From their nearly identical chemical structures to how our bodies metabolize them, Dr. Enahora explains why the real concern lies not in the source of sugar but in how much of it we consume. She also explores how cost, processing, and consumer perceptions shape the ingredients that end up on our shelves. Beyond the science, we talk about how to move away from “good” or “bad” l...
2025-10-2430 minThe Science That Feeds UsPFAS in Our Food: What the Science Says About "Forever Chemicals"In this episode, Dr. Khara Grieger and Dr. Katy May join us to explore the growing concern around PFAS, often called “forever chemicals,” and their connection to our food and water systems. From cookware and cosmetics to contaminated rivers in North Carolina, they unpack how PFAS make their way into our bodies and the risks they pose for human health, farmers, and local communities. We discuss what the science does and doesn’t yet tell us, the challenges of regulating thousands of PFAS compounds, and how consumers can make more informed choices without panic. Plus, our guests highlight emerging soluti...
2025-10-1037 minThe Science That Feeds UsSNAP Outreach: How Communities Are Expanding Access to FoodIn this episode, Dr. Carolyn Bird joins us to unpack the role of SNAP outreach in connecting families to vital food resources. She explains how the More In My Basket program works to reduce barriers, simplify applications, and raise awareness of benefits many people don’t realize SNAP offers. We explore the challenges of keeping benefits aligned with rising food costs, innovations that could streamline enrollment, and the importance of partnerships with Extension agents and community groups. Dr. Bird also shares stories that highlight why outreach matters and how it builds access and nutrition security across North Carolina.
2025-09-2634 minThe Science That Feeds UsNutrition Education Through SNAP-Ed: What You Didn't KnowIn this episode, Tammy Brunelle and Kim Eshleman join us to unpack the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program’s education arm, SNAP-Ed, and its role in promoting healthier communities. We explore how SNAP-Ed goes beyond food assistance to support nutrition education, policy, systems, and environmental changes that make healthy choices more accessible. They share powerful stories from their work, highlighting how small shifts can spark broader transformation. We also talk about why community-driven solutions matter, how SNAP and SNAP-Ed work together, and what the future of this work might look like. Learn more about Tammy and...
2025-09-2634 minThe Science That Feeds UsSNAP Explained: How the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program WorksIn this episode, Dr. Sarah Bowen and Dr. Annie Hardison-Moody join us to explore the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), and the stories, science, and policies behind it. We talk about who uses SNAP, what it actually provides, and how it became one of the most effective tools for fighting food insecurity in the U.S. We also unpack common myths and look at new policy proposals that could reshape how the program works. Dr. Bowen and Dr. Hardison-Moody remind us that food assistance isn't about who deserves help; it's about recognizing food as a right, not a reward.
2025-09-2641 minThe Science That Feeds UsMeet Your Hosts: Why We Started The Science That Feeds UsIn this episode, we turn the mic on ourselves to share the story behind The Science That Feeds Us. We talk about how our own paths led us into science and communication, and why this podcast exists in the first place. At the core is our belief that storytelling makes science more human, more relatable, and ultimately more impactful. We explore what makes food systems communication different from agricultural communication, and why conversations about food are uniquely personal and challenging compared to other sciences. We also reflect on the topics we’ve been most excited to cover this season, th...
2025-09-1239 minThe Science That Feeds UsWhat Are Gene-Edited Foods? CRISPR and the Future of Your PlateIn this episode, we sit down with Dr. Rodolphe Barrangou to unpack the promise and complexity of genome editing in our food system. From public misunderstandings about DNA to the urgency of feeding a growing population, Dr. Barrangou highlights the motivations driving CRISPR research and how the technology is being used responsibly to solve global challenges. We explore the ethical and regulatory dilemmas of genome editing, the risks of unintended consequences, and the global questions of resource allocation. Plus, he shares how CRISPR is already improving everyday items like yogurt, laundry detergent, and even paper! Tune in to hear...
2025-08-2932 minThe Science That Feeds UsAre Seed Oils Bad for You? Breaking Down the ControversyIn this episode, Dr. Sarah Ash joins us to break down the buzz, and the backlash, around seed oils. We dive into the science of inflammation, how omega-6s interact in the body, and why understanding a little organic chemistry goes a long way to help make sense of nutrition claims. We also explore how fear-based messaging spreads online, how food influencers keep their audiences hooked, and why nutrition advice often falls apart when it promises a silver bullet. Dr. Ash reminds us that “when you try to oversimplify that one thing, it often just falls apart.”
2025-08-1538 min
The Science That Feeds UsHow Misinformation Spreads About Food and What We Can Do About ItIn this episode, Dr. Ben Chapman joins us to unpack how misinformation spreads in food systems and why it often fills gaps in trust and access to science. We explore why certain stories gain traction, how science communication can acknowledge uncertainty without losing credibility, and why "debunking" might not be as powerful as discussion. We also talk about green flags for identifying credible sources online and the value of shifting from combative communication to trust-building dialogue. Dr. Chapman challenges scientists to stay engaged in public conversations even when it's imperfect, because "It's always better to be in the story...
2025-08-0135 min
The Science That Feeds UsOrganic vs. Conventional Foods: Is One Healthier Than the Other?In this episode, Dr. Gabriel Keith Harris joins us to break down the science behind organic and conventional foods, and why the conversation is far more complex than most labels suggest. We explore how farming practices shape nutrient content, pesticide exposure, and environmental impact, and why “organic” doesn’t always mean pesticide-free or healthier foods. Dr. Harris also walks us through how post-harvest handling, processing, and packaging influence the health qualities of our food, and why the journey from farm to fork matters just as much as how a crop is grown. Finally, we discuss sustainability trade-offs, the limits of cur...
2025-08-0137 min
The Science That Feeds UsInside the Bird Flu Outbreak: What You Need to Know About H5N1In this episode, Dr. Matt Koci joins us to break down the science and story behind highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI), commonly known as bird flu. We explore how the virus has evolved from a seasonal, migratory threat to a persistent, year-round challenge for poultry and beyond. Dr. Koci explains the surprising jump to cattle, the complexities of disease surveillance, and why vaccines haven’t been implemented yet. We also discuss how the virus spreads, what this means for backyard flocks, and what everyday consumers should, and shouldn’t, worry about. When it comes to public concern, Dr. Koci offe...
2025-08-0136 min