Foodie Pharmacology Podcast

What if the future of egg farming could eliminate one of the industry’s most difficult animal welfare issues—male chick culling? Thanks to in-ovo sexing technology, that future is here. This week on Foodie Pharmacology, I talk with Jasen Urena, Vice President of NestFresh, about the launch of their Humanely Hatched™ eggs—the first in the U.S. to ensure only female chicks are incubated. It’s a groundbreaking step that transforms both animal welfare and consumer choice. Jasen shares his journey at NestFresh and how the company has been at the forefront of ethical innovation, from pioneering Non-GMO Project Verified and Regenerative Organic Certified™ eggs to introducing reusable distribution systems that cut emissions and boost traceability. We discuss the promise of regenerative agriculture, how consumer demand is reshaping food systems, and why bold moves are often the catalyst for lasting change in legacy industries. Whether you care about sustainability, farm animal welfare, or just want to understand where your food comes from, this episode offers a hopeful look at how science and ethics can come together to change what’s on our plates. 🔗 Learn more: nestfresh.com ☕ Support the show: buymeacoffee.com/foodiepharma 🎧 Listen to more episodes: foodiepharmacology.com #animalwelfare #eggs #chickens #podcast #nestfresh

Plants are master chemists. From caffeine and nicotine to powerful drugs like colchicine, they manufacture an incredible array of molecules that defend against pests, attract pollinators, and sometimes even become lifesaving medicines for humans. But how exactly do plants build these complex compounds, and why do they make them in the first place? This week, I sit down with Dr. Ryan Nett, Assistant Professor of Molecular and Cellular Biology at Harvard University, to explore the fascinating world of plant biosynthesis. We talk about how plants orchestrate molecular “assembly lines” using specialized enzymes, why some of the most promising medicines are so difficult to source from nature, and how advances in genetics and synthetic biology are opening new doors to sustainable drug production. Dr. Nett shares insights from his research on alkaloids such as huperzine A, investigated for Alzheimer’s disease, and colchicine, a historic treatment for gout and inflammation. We also discuss the grand challenges of plant chemistry, from deciphering massive genomes to engineering microbes like yeast to produce rare medicinal compounds. If you’ve ever wondered how plants turn simple building blocks into some of the most valuable medicines on Earth, you won’t want to miss this conversation! Learn more at https://www.nett-lab.com/ #botany #medicinalplants #chemistry #science #biosynthesis

Food allergies affect millions of children and adults worldwide—and the numbers are rising. This week on the show, Dr. Quave speaks with Dr. Sarita Patil, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and Co-Director of the MGH Food Allergy Center, to explore the science behind allergic reactions. They discuss the differences between food allergies and intolerances, the rise in childhood allergies, and how early exposure to allergenic foods can help prevent these conditions. Dr. Patil shares insights from her latest research on peanut immunotherapy and the role of protective antibodies in reducing severe reactions. She also explains eosinophilic esophagitis, a chronic condition linked to food allergens that affects the esophagus. The conversation covers key topics such as the hygiene hypothesis, the influence of breastfeeding and the microbiome on food allergies, and the challenges of managing food allergies in the context of food insecurity. Whether you are caring for someone with food allergies or interested in how the immune system interacts with our diet, this episode offers practical information and new perspectives on managing food-related health challenges. #foodallergy #allergy #podcast #FoodiePharmacology #Peanuts

What if our future food security depended not on fields of grain, but on forests of trees? In this episode of Foodie Pharmacology, I sit down with Elspeth Hay, author of Feed Us with Trees: Nuts and the Future of Food and host of the Local Food Report on CAI NPR. Elspeth takes us on a journey through oak groves and chestnut stands to explore how nut-bearing trees once fed the world—and could again. We unpack the ecological power of keystone species like oaks and the role of fire in maintaining these ancient foodscapes. Elspeth shares how acorns, hazelnuts, and chestnuts offer a compelling alternative to industrial crops—and how Indigenous foodways and land management practices hold the key to unlocking their full potential. From forgotten ancestral practices to the modern movement to rewild our diets and ecosystems, this episode is a hopeful call to reconnect with the trees that once sustained us. Learn more about Elspeth’s work at elspethhay.com and follow her on Instagram @elspethhay. #TreeNuts #WildFoods #FoodiePharmacology #KeystoneSpecies #Rewilding #EdibleForests

This week on the show, Dr. Quave speaks with Dr. Giulia Menichetti, a computational physicist at Harvard Medical School, about one of the most elusive frontiers in nutrition science: the “dark matter” of food. While most nutrition data is focused on a handful of known nutrients, Dr. Menichetti’s “Foodome” Project is charting the vast landscape of overlooked bioactive compounds hidden in everyday ingredients—and using artificial intelligence to unlock their therapeutic potential. From network science and protein targets to AI-powered metabolomics and precision diets, this conversation uncovers how foods interact with our biology in ways we’re only beginning to understand. You’ll learn how ultra-processed foods disrupt this balance, why many food databases are incomplete, and how the future of personalized nutrition might be written not just in our genes—but in the chemical language of our meals. 🎧 Tune in to discover how food, evolution, and ecology converge in the search for a more intelligent approach to eating. #Foodome #FoodiePharmacology #AI #PrecisionNutrition #NetworkMedicine #UltraProcessedFoods #NutritionScience

This week on the show, Dr. Quave speaks with conservation biologist Dr. Daniel Villar about the deep connections between culture, ecology, and traditional knowledge in the Central Andes. Their conversation centers on Lake Titicaca, one of the world’s highest navigable lakes, where Dr. Villar has studied how traditional ecological knowledge (TEK) shapes and responds to environmental change. They discuss the many uses of the totora sedge—a plant once used to build floating islands, craft artisanal goods, and provide food for people and livestock—and how its management reflects centuries of indigenous governance and adaptation. Dr. Villar also shares his insights on the role of ethnobiology in conservation, the value of cultural diversity in protecting biodiversity, and how his research sheds light on climate resilience. Don’t miss this fascinating look at the science of survival through the lens of cultural and ecological evolution. #Ethnobiology #LakeTiticaca #TEK #BioculturalDiversity #FoodiePharmacology #Conservation #Andes #IndigenousKnowledge

What if your doctor prescribed kale instead of pills? This week on Foodie Pharmacology, Dr. Quave sits down with Dr. Steven Chen and Nat Irwin to discuss Recipe4Health, a pioneering “Food as Medicine” program transforming how we treat chronic disease. Based in Alameda County, CA, this initiative pairs regenerative and organic produce with health coaching—all covered by Medi-Cal (Medicaid). Learn how fresh, regenerative produce is being prescribed to thousands of patients as part of a broader effort to improve outcomes for chronic conditions like diabetes and depression. This innovative model also delivers ripple effects beyond the clinic—supporting BIPOC farmers, restoring soil health, and advancing equity through the H3E (Health Cubed Equity) framework, which links human, ecological, and economic well-being. Together, we unpack how food, coaching, and community can improve health outcomes, reduce healthcare costs, and nourish both people and the planet. This podcast episode is sponsored by The Periodic Table of Food Initiative in association with the American Heart Association. The views and opinions in this podcast are those of the presenters and represent the synthesis of science. For more information on the Periodic Table of Food Initiative, please visit https://foodperiodictable.org/ #FoodAsMedicine #Recipe4Health #HealthEquity #RegenerativeAgriculture #ChronicDisease #FoodiePharmacology #Organic

Psilocybin and the Fountain of Youth with Dr. Louise Hecker Could magic mushrooms hold the key to longer life? In this episode, Dr. Quave chats with Dr. Louise Hecker, Associate Professor at Baylor College of Medicine and Founder of Fibronox, about her groundbreaking research on psilocybin and aging. You may have seen the headlines—her team found that psilocybin slowed cellular aging, reduced oxidative stress, and even extended lifespan in mice. Dr. Hecker shares the origin story behind the study, which started with rooftop workouts and curiosity, and walks us through the science behind her findings. From challenges in getting regulatory approval to designing realistic dosing regimens for her laboratory studies, we discuss what it takes to study psychedelics in the lab. We also explore future directions in longevity research and how this ancient fungal compound might one day support healthier aging. Tune in to learn how psilocybin could reshape the way we think about aging and health. #psilocybin #psychedelic #aging #longevity #healthyaging

Menus aren’t just lists of food—they’re time machines. This week on Foodie Pharmacology, Dr. Cassandra Quave returns to Season 7 with literary food historian Dr. Nathalie Cooke of McGill University. Together, they explore how menus offer rich clues into the cultural, economic, and even medical mindsets of past centuries. From elephant soup on menus to how Coca-Cola and cigarettes once appeared as health tonics, you’ll hear surprising stories of how dining habits—and health claims—have evolved. Discover how art, identity, and even politics show up on the plate, and how modern “no-choice” tasting menus harken back to royal traditions. Don’t miss this fascinating dive into culinary history through the lens of Nathalie’s latest book, Taste and Traditions: A Journey Through Menu History. 🎧 Subscribe now and take a seat at the historical table. #MenuHistory #FoodCulture #CulinaryTraditions #WildFoods #HealthOnTheMenu #FoodiePharmacology

This week on the show, we speak with Dr. César Ojeda, an ethnobiologist specializing in fermentation, biocultural diversity, and microbial ecology. Dr. Ojeda shares his insights on traditional Mexican fermented beverages, particularly focusing on the science and cultural importance of these foods. We discuss the concept of ethnomicrobiology, the role of microbes in traditional agriculture, and how microbial communities impact the fermentation process. From lessons on prickly pear cactus fermented beverages and the significance of various fermentation containers, we cover a delightful array of fun food science topics! #cactus #fermentation #pricklypear #microbiology

This week on the show, we’re joined by Dr. Rosette Chakkalakal, an Associate Professor at Emory School of Medicine and Director of Preventive Medicine, and Kathy Taylor, Director of Medical Nutrition Therapy at Grady Health System. Dr. Chakkalakal and Taylor share insights into Grady’s innovative Food as Medicine program, which addresses food insecurity and chronic disease management through nutrition-based interventions. We discuss the critical role of fresh produce access, cooking education, and personalized nutrition counseling in improving health outcomes for patients with diabetes and hypertension. Our guests highlight how Grady’s approach is transforming patient care—helping to lower A1C levels, reduce hospital visits, and even put diabetes into remission. They also share valuable lessons for other healthcare institutions interested in implementing similar programs. Don't miss this inspiring conversation on how food can truly be medicine! 🔗 Learn more at gradyhealth.org #nutrition #podcast #diabetes #primarycare

If you feel like you never have time to cook a healthy meal, this episode is for you! This week on the show, we’re joined by Sharon Palmer, known as the ‘Plant-powered Dietician.’ Sharon shares helpful tips on easy and healthy meal preparation and explores the intersection of nutrition and sustainability. Plants really are the best when it comes to supporting a healthy planet and a healthy you! Sharon also discusses her new book 'The Plant Powered Plan to Beat Diabetes' and shares valuable information on managing and preventing chronic diseases through dietary choices. Learn more about her work at https://sharonpalmer.com/ and https://foodandplanet.org/. #vegan #vegetarian #cookbook

Have you ever wondered what’s really in your food—beyond just vitamins, minerals, carbs, proteins, and fats—but also the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compounds that impact health? This week on the show, our guest is Dr. Selena Ahmed, Global Director of the Periodic Table of Food Initiative (PTFI) and Dean of Food EDU at the American Heart Association. With her expertise in food systems research and sustainable agriculture, Dr. Ahmed delves into PTFI’s mission to transform our understanding of food composition and quality. We discuss the importance of biodiversity, nutritional yields, and sustainable farming practices like agroforestry, which support both healthier ecosystems and better human health. Plus, we explore how the fusion of traditional knowledge and cutting-edge science—including the role of AI in food analysis—is uncovering new insights into what we eat. Don’t miss this fascinating conversation about the future of food! Learn more: https://foodperiodictable.org #food #podcast #nutrition #biodiversity #PTFI

We’ve all seen it—whether it’s a cat rolling in catnip with pure delight or a dog eating grass, only to vomit it up later. Are these just quirky animal behaviors, or could they be something more—perhaps even a form of self-medication using nature’s pharmacy? This week on the show, we’re joined by Dr. Jaap de Roode, a biology professor at Emory University, to discuss his fascinating new book, 'Doctors by Nature: How Ants, Apes, and Other Animals Heal Themselves.' He shares remarkable insights into how a wide range of creatures—from monarch butterflies to chimpanzees and house sparrows—intentionally use plants and other natural substances to treat infections, repel parasites, and improve their health. Our conversation delves into the evolutionary and learned behaviors behind animal self-medication, as well as the broader implications for traditional and modern medicine. Dr. de Roode also offers practical advice on how we can better support wildlife and our pets by making more informed choices about their habitats and diets. Don’t miss this thought-provoking discussion on the surprising ways animals harness the power of nature to heal! #nature #medicine #animals

This week on the show, we’re joined by Dr. Lars Bode, a leading expert in human milk research and director of the Human Milk Institute at UC San Diego. Dr. Bode takes us on a fascinating journey into the science of breast milk, breaking down its unique composition, health benefits, and role in shaping infant development. We discuss how maternal diet, environmental exposures, and even medications influence milk production, as well as the critical role of human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) in supporting infant immunity and gut health. Dr. Bode also shares groundbreaking research on milk-derived compounds with potential applications in adult health, including cardiovascular disease and arthritis. Don't miss this deep dive into one of nature’s most remarkable superfoods! 🔗 Learn more at https://hmi.ucsd.edu/ #HumanMilk #Breastfeeding #InfantHealth #GutMicrobiome #MaternalHealth #NutritionScience #MilkResearch #FoodiePharmacology

This week on the show, we’re joined by Dr. Matt Bernstein, a psychiatrist specializing in metabolic medicine, to discuss the use of ketogenic diets in improving mental and brain health. Dr. Bernstein shares his personal journey and the transformative results he has seen in his patients, and delves into the science behind ketosis, mitochondrial function, and the role of diet in managing serious mental health conditions like bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, and more. The episode provides a comprehensive overview of how dietary changes can play a pivotal role in brain health and overall wellness. Learn more about this approach to health at www.accordmh.com. #mentalhealth #ketogenicdiet #ketosis #psychiatry #metabolism #brainhealth

Our guest this week is Hamilton Pevec, ethnomycologist, entrepreneur, and filmmaker who has dedicated his career to advancing medicinal mushroom efficacy and mycological science. Hamilton discusses his work in advancing medicinal mushroom science and shares insights into the Telluride Mushroom Festival, fungal forays, and the incredible health benefits of various mushrooms. Discover how functional mushrooms like Reishi, Chaga, Cordyceps, and Lion's Mane can support your health, the process behind extracting their medicinal properties, and practical tips for responsible mushroom foraging. Interested in trying his mushroom extracts? Our podcast listeners get a special discount at https://hamiltonsmushrooms.com/FOODIEPHARMA or use coupon code FOODIE10. #mushroom #chaga #resihi #lionsmane #cordyceps #foodie #podcast

Access to clean water is a luxury that many of us take for granted. Without it, the most vulnerable among us—especially children—are at risk of life-threatening diarrheal disease and stunted development due to the cycle of malnutrition and infection. Our guest this week is medical anthropologist, Dr. Rachel Hall Clifford, author of the new book, “Underbelly: Childhood Diarrhea and the Hidden Local Realities of Global Health” available via open access at MIT Press. Rachel shares insights on the challenges of accessing clean water, effective rehydration therapies, and the complex social dynamics affecting health care in rural communities. Discover the importance of low-cost, community-driven solutions and the vital role of women in global health. #publichealth #malnutrition #cleanwater

What can the building blocks of our food ingredients tell us about our health and the health of our planet? This week on the show, we discuss the fields of metabolomics and lipidomics with experts Dr. Andres Jaramillo-Botero and Dr. Natalia Vázquez Manjarrez. Andres is the founding Director of the iOMICAS Research Institute, a Rockefeller Foundation PTFI Center of Excellence focused on elucidating and democratizing access to food composition at the molecular level and led since 2018 the international research alliance, ÓMICAS, a multi-omics crop breeding optimization program funded by the Colombian government through the World Bank’s PACES program. Natalia leads the Metabolomics Unit within the Department of Nutrition Physiology at the National Institute of Medical Sciences Salvador Zubirán in Mexico City. We examine diet from the molecular level and discuss where the future of food might take us! This podcast is sponsored by The Periodic Table of Food Initiative in association with the American Heart Association. The views and opinions in this podcast are those of the presenters and represent the synthesis of science. For more information on the Periodic Table of Food Initiative, please visit https://foodperiodictable.org/ #food #omics #diet #health

This week we explore valuable lessons on defining sustainability, avoiding corporate greenwashing, and creating meaningful change. Our guest is author, speaker, and corporate advisor Maisie Ganzler. She is the go-to expert on how companies can make positive change for our world. Driving strategy for Bon Appetit Management Company, the $1.7 billion foodservice leader, Maisie tackled local purchasing, antibiotics, sustainable seafood, humane care of farm animals, climate change, farmworkers’ rights, and food waste. We discuss the balance between humane treatment of livestock and environmental sustainability, including the complexities of removing antibiotics from food production. Maisie shares how businesses can strategically grow while committing to sustainability and the importance of transparency in telling their brand stories. Learn more about these insights from her book, 'You Can't Market Manure at Lunchtime,' about building an authentic, sustainable brand. Visit her website: https://www.maisieganzler.com/ #sustainability #foodsystems #marketing