The Science That Feeds Us

Katie Sanders and Bhavisha Gulabrai
  • 5.0 (6)
  • Science

The story behind what's on your plate.

  1. 4d ago

    CRISPR Pork and Public Understanding: Communicating New Food Technologies

    In this episode, Joe Proudman and Tracy Sellers join us to explore the role of communication in shaping public conversations about CRISPR gene editing and other emerging agricultural technologies. Together, we discuss why researchers are exploring CRISPR in livestock production, the potential implications for animal health and sustainability, and what recent research reveals about how consumers think about these innovations. The conversation examines why storytelling, transparency, and early public engagement are essential for communicating complex science, particularly before misinformation fills knowledge gaps. We also explore how scientists, communicators, and social scientists can work together throughout the research process to better understand public values and build trust around new technologies. Ultimately, the discussion highlights that how we communicate emerging science may be just as important as the discoveries themselves.  Learn more about Joe Proudman’s work below: UC Davis CLEAR Center Bio Page: https://clear.ucdavis.edu/people/joe-proudman  Learn more about Tracy Seller’s work below: UC Davis CLEAR Center Bio Page: https://clear.ucdavis.edu/people/tracy-sellers  Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic: UC Davis State of the Science Summit: https://clear.ucdavis.edu/news/global-experts-convene-fourth-annual-state-science-summit  Article- Using narratives and storytelling to communicate science with nonexpert audiences: https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.1320645111  Article- What is Post-Normal Science: https://www.andreasaltelli.eu/file/repository/Editorials2.pdf  The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University. Visit https://units.cals.ncsu.edu/food-systems-comm-hub/ for more information. Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

  2. Sep 25

    New World Screwworm: Understanding the Threat to Livestock and the Food System

    In this episode, Dr. Maxwell Scott joins us to unpack the New World Screwworm and why this parasitic fly is an important concern for livestock producers and animal health. Dr. Scott explains how Screwworm affects animals, why it is difficult to control, and how the United States successfully eradicated it through the use of the sterile insect technique. We also explore the pest’s recent re-emergence in Mexico and Texas, the biological and ecological factors that could influence its spread, and what an outbreak could mean for livestock producers and the broader food system. The conversation highlights Dr. Scott’s research developing genetically engineered male-only strains that could make sterile insect programs more efficient, as well as emerging approaches using CRISPR to sterilize males and gene drives to suppress insect populations. Dr. Scott also discusses how these technologies are being evaluated for responsible use and why continued innovation will be important for managing Screwworm in the future.  Learn more about Dr. Scott’s work below: NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/entomology-and-plant-pathology/people/mjscott3/  Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic: Max Scott Lab: https://maxscottlab.wordpress.ncsu.edu/  Genetic Engineering and Society Center at NC State: https://ges.research.ncsu.edu/  Gene Convene Webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ON960H5VFgI  North Central IPM Webinar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sw6ferJh3TM  USDA- NovoFly Q&A: https://www.aphis.usda.gov/novofly-questions-answers  Article- An early female lethal system of the New World screwworm, Cochliomya hominivorax, for biotechnology-enhanced SIT: https://link-springer-com.prox.lib.ncsu.edu/article/10.1186/s12863-020-00948-x  The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University. Visit https://units.cals.ncsu.edu/food-systems-comm-hub/ for more information. Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

  3. Sep 11

    What is Climate-Resilient Agriculture? Innovations in Food and Farming

    In this episode, Dr. Chris Reberg-Horton joins us to explore what climate-resilient agriculture looks like in practice and how farmers are adapting to increasing weather variability. We discuss the challenges posed by drought, heavy rainfall, and shifting climate patterns, and how conservation practices like cover crops and reduced tillage can help improve resilience on the farm. The conversation also highlights how different crops and regions face varying levels of vulnerability, and how growers manage risk through diversification and long-term planning. Dr. Reberg-Horton shares how precision agriculture and emerging technologies are changing decision making in real time and reshaping how farms operate at different scales. Finally, we talk about the balance between sustainability and profitability, and what it will take to build more resilient and adaptive food systems moving forward.  Learn more about Dr. Reberg-Horton’s work below: NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/crop-and-soil-sciences/people/screberg/  Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic: Precision Sustainable Agriculture: https://www.precisionsustainableag.org/  The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University. Visit https://units.cals.ncsu.edu/food-systems-comm-hub/ for more information. Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

  4. Aug 28

    The Silent Pandemic: Understanding the Rise of Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria

    In this episode, Dr. Sid Thakur joins us to unpack antimicrobial resistance (AMR) and why it is one of the most urgent challenges for both human and animal health. Dr. Thakur explains how AMR develops, why antibiotics remain essential but increasingly complex tools, and how the One Health approach helps us understand the connections between people, animals, food systems, and the environment. We also explore how resistant bacteria can move through food, farms, pets, hospitals, and the broader environment, highlighting why AMR is a truly interconnected issue rather than a single-source problem. The conversation addresses common misconceptions about antibiotics in food production, existing safeguards and regulations, and the gap between policy and real-world implementation. Dr. Thakur closes with a reminder that awareness, responsible use, and stronger translation of science into action are critical to slowing the spread of AMR and protecting both public and global health.  Learn more about Dr. Thakur’s work below: NC State Bio Page: https://cvm.ncsu.edu/people/sthakur/  Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic: World Health Organization: https://www.who.int/teams/surveillance-prevention-control-AMR/nap-amr-implementation-handbook  The Lancet: https://www.thelancet.com/commissions-do/one-health  World Health Organization- One Health Initiative: https://www.who.int/teams/one-health-initiative/quadripartite-secretariat-for-one-health  Center for Disease Control: https://www.cdc.gov/foodnet/index.htmL/  The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University. Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

  5. Aug 14

    Why We Choose What We Eat: The Psychology Behind Food Decisions

    In this episode, Dr. William Hallman joins us to explore the psychology behind food choice and why the way we think about food is shaped by more than science alone. Together, we discuss how emotions, identity, trust, culture, and social media influence food decisions, while examining why the same information can lead different people to very different conclusions. Dr. Hallman also explains how packaging, labels, and other visual cues shape perceptions of food quality, nutrition, and safety, and why these mental shortcuts become especially influential during moments of uncertainty and controversy. From food recalls and emerging technologies to viral nutrition claims, we explore how people assess food-related risks and what these patterns reveal about the challenges of communicating science. Tune in for an insightful conversation on the psychology of food and why effective science communication begins with understanding people’s values, experiences, and perspectives.  Learn more about Dr. Hallman’s work below: Rutgers University Bio Page: https://humanecology.rutgers.edu/people/faculty/william-hallman/  Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic: FAO & WHO - Food safety aspects of cell-based food (social dimensions and communications): https://openknowledge.fao.org/items/94b21367-e1ee-4448-a65e-f40595862253  APEC Food Safety Risk Communication Framework and Associated Guidelines: https://www.apec.org/publications/2022/02/apec-food-safety-risk-communication-framework-and-associated-guidelines  Communicating Science Effectively: A Research Agenda: https://www.nationalacademies.org/projects/DBASSE-DBASSE-15-01/publication/23674  Risk Communication Applied to Food Safety Handbook: https://openknowledge.fao.org/server/api/core/bitstreams/04539c1d-1feb-4acf-bd9e-9d635e51c617/content  The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University. Visit https://units.cals.ncsu.edu/food-systems-comm-hub/ for more information. Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

  6. Jul 31

    Rewind: PFAS 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 solutions, from municipal water filters to bioremediation, and share why collective awareness and source reduction may be the key to protecting our future food system.  Learn more about Dr. Grieger and Dr. May’s work below: Khara Grieger’s NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/applied-ecology/people/kdgriege/  Katy May’s NC State Bio Page: https://publicscience.ncsu.edu/people/kmay2/  Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic: NC State University PFAS Hub: https://superfund.ncsu.edu/pfas-hub/  Guide to Understanding and Addressing PFAS in our Communities: https://content.ces.ncsu.edu/Guide-to-Understanding-and-Addressing-PFAS-in-our-communities  PFAS: Concerns Mount Regarding Biosolid Applications: https://farmlaw.ces.ncsu.edu/2025/02/pfas-concerns-mount-regarding-biosolid-applications/  EWG’s Tap Water Database: https://www.ewg.org/tapwater/reviewed-pfcs.php  PFAS Central PFAS-Free Products: https://pfascentral.org/pfas-free-products/  PFAS Project Lab Resources: https://pfasproject.com/additional-resources-get-the-facts/  PFAS Exchange - What’s My Exposure: https://www-pfas.pfas-exchange.org/report/graphtool/  The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University. Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

  7. Jul 17

    Rewind: Is Red Dye #40 Safe? The Science Behind Artificial Food Coloring

    In 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. Tune in to hear how Dr. Johnston helps us navigate labels, media headlines, and ingredient choices while emphasizing that staying informed and supporting research is key to a safe and resilient food supply.  Learn more about Dr. Johnston’s work below: NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/food-bioprocessing-and-nutrition-sciences/people/lmkleman/  Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic: Center for Science in the Public Interest: https://act.cspinet.org/a/evg-ps-donate-ep?ms=&sourceid=1129207&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20127461743&gbraid=0AAAAAD_usrhrHwm6eDWjKOX6425_pjVHS&gclid=CjwKCAjw7fzDBhA7EiwAOqJkhyEZykFAVk0xhoSCfqf9DryoHtb59X-MXuW-D9RexbJJVEuPMvjcpBoCFakQAvD_BwE  US FDA Color Additives: https://www.fda.gov/industry/color-additives  The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University. Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

  8. Jul 3

    Rewind: Sugar Showdown: High Fructose Corn Syrup vs. Cane Sugar

    In 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” labels and toward a more balanced view of nutrition and health. Tune in to hear how Dr. Enahora helps people build sustainable eating habits that focus less on perfection and more on long-term well-being. Learn more about Dr. Enahora’s work below: NC State Bio Page: https://cals.ncsu.edu/agricultural-and-human-sciences/people/basheerah-enahora/  Check out the following resources to learn more about today’s topic: American Heart Association - Added Sugars: https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/added-sugars  CDC - Be Smart About Sugar: https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-weight-growth/be-sugar-smart/index.html  Article: Effects of high-fructose corn syrup and sucrose consumption on circulating glucose, insulin, leptin, and ghrelin and on appetite in normal-weight women: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17234503/ American Heart Association - How Much Sugar Is Too Much?: https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/how-much-sugar-is-too-much  Article: Straight talk about high-fructose corn syrup: what it is and what it ain’t: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19064536/   Article: Sucrose, high-fructose corn syrup, and fructose, their metabolism and potential health effects: what do we really know?: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23493540/  Article: Twenty-four-hour endocrine and metabolic profiles following consumption of high-fructose corn syrup-, sucrose-, fructose-, and glucose-sweetened beverages with meals: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/18469239/  The Science That Feeds Us podcast brings together extension agents, faculty specialists, and scientists for interdisciplinary conversations on emerging trends in agriculture and the food system. Designed to inform and engage both professionals and curious consumers, we highlight the stories behind the science to build deeper connections to food and agriculture research. The Science That Feeds Us is supported by NC State Extension and NC State University. Edited and Produced by: Bhavisha Gulabrai Music: Podcast theme music by Transistor.fm. Learn how to start a podcast here.

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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
6 Ratings

About

The story behind what's on your plate.

Information

  • Creator
    Katie Sanders and Bhavisha Gulabrai
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Science That Feeds Us
  • Show Website
    The Science That Feeds Us

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