The Fakelore of Food Origins
Where did potato chips come from? How about clams casino? Are the origin stories for these foods true, or do they fall into the category of “fakelore”?
Plant of the Month: Black-eyed Pea
Human relationships to this global crop have been shaped by both violence and resilience.
The Nimatron
The world’s first video game made its debut at the Westinghouse pavilion at the New York World's Fair in 1939. Read all about it!
Can a Robot Become a Pizza Chef?
Tracking the accomplishments of RoDyMan in a valiant attempt to make a pizza.
Food and Culture
Food is complicated. That creation you love from "The Great British Baking Show? It's been the subject of arguments over culture, identity and copyright.
Reclaiming Rice in Taiwan
After World War 2, the US ramped up international food aid, both as a Cold War strategy and as a way to distribute surplus products.
The Paradoxical Pomegranate
Aphrodisiac and contraceptive, enflaming and cooling, the pomegranate was a balancing act, mediating between opposing states.
The King of Mail-Order Muscles
Flab, begone! Earle Edwin Liederman wanted men to learn his vaudeville-strongman secrets—for a not-so-low price.
What Happened to Peanut Butter and Jelly?
The rise and fall of the iconic sandwich has paralleled changes in Americans' economic conditions.
Is Disgust Related to Morality?
The disgust response acts as a behavioral immune system, protecting us from disease, but produces strong reactions to perceived out-groups.