November 26, 2021
Koji mold has transformed food for centuries—and it’s a perfect tool for culinary experimentation. Plus, the physics of your singing wine bottle. And, of course, we celebrate silly science with this year’s Ig Nobel awards.
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12:10
New Cold Storage Method Solves Freezer Burn—And Saves Energy
Scientists are working on an ice-free method for preserving food at cold temperatures, avoiding freezer burn. And it could save energy too.
15:00
The Bacteria Behind Your Favorite Blues, Bries, and More
Microbiologist Rachel Dutton discusses the bacterial battle behind the tastes and textures of cheese.
1:59
The World According To Sound: When Your Wine Bottle Sings
Named after the 19th-century physicist and physician Hermann von Helmholtz, this phenomenon of sound is more than just a party trick.
12:11
A More Delicious COVID Screener
Researchers are learning more about how COVID affects taste and smell with candy.
34:27
Laugh And Learn With The Ig Nobel Prizes
The evolutionary history of beards! The communications of cats! And more at the 31st first annual Ig Nobel Prize Ceremony.
16:45
Koji: The Mold You Want In Your Kitchen
The fluffy white mold has transformed food for centuries—and it’s a perfect tool for culinary experimentation.
Juggernaut: Indian Temple Or Unstoppable Force?
Jagannath Temple in India gave rise to the word “juggernaut.” But the ancient story of Jagannath is rather delightful.
12:06
Here’s How Biden’s Infrastructure Bill Addresses Science
The bipartisan measure would pump billions of dollars into the fight against environmental pollution.
16:37
The Big Bang Theory Of Cancer
Genetic sequencing is helping scientists see how cancer begins.
7:59
Blunting The Force Of Disease Is Complicated
The real-world efficacy of a vaccine may depend on factors far beyond the properties of the vaccine itself.
4:08
The Chemistry Of The Perfect Cookie
Manipulating ingredients in a cookie can tip the balance between crispy and chewy.
17:13
Thanksgiving Calls For A Dash Of Science
America’s Test Kitchen authors explain the surprising science behind 50 popular ingredients.
16:58
America Has A Food Disparity Problem
It’s not just that poorer neighborhoods have fewer grocery stores. Making healthy food takes emotional and energy resources.
17:01
Happy (Holiday) Testing Season!
With so many test options on the market, what tests are best—and when should you use them this holiday season?
How Racism Shapes Our Perception Of Healthy Food
In her new book, Priya Fielding-Singh writes about how race, culture, and media complicate what we choose to eat.
How Climate Change Is Giving Maine’s Wild Blueberries The Blues
Climate change is threatening Maine’s native blueberries. These researchers are looking to provide solutions—and help farmers in the process.
11:54
Could Psychedelics Help Treat Depression?
Psilocybin, the psychedelic component of magic mushrooms, may be effective for some patients for whom other antidepressants haven’t worked.
16:44
”Dopesick” Takes On The Opioid Crisis
The writer of the new Hulu show joins Ira to discuss the ongoing legal saga of elusive accountability for Oxycontin’s misuse.
16:56
Squirrel-Nut Economics And Other Agility Tricks
Researchers are learning about memory, learning, and economics from our bushy-tailed neighbors.