logo
episode-header-image
May 2022
31m 9s

Why do we love junk food so much?

CBC
About this episode
Pizza, chips, gummy worms and wings — these are a few of Tai’s favourite things! He just can’t get enough of their sugary, fatty, salty goodness, even though he knows they’re not exactly good *for* you. But why does he find those foods so irresistible in the first place? In this episode, Tai unravels the science behind our food cravings and how companies use ... Show More
Up next
Apr 2024
Can our generation make Earth Day cool again? (Bonus from What On Earth)
The climate is changing. So are we. On What On Earth, you’ll explore a world of solutions with host Laura Lynch and our team of journalists. In 1970, 20 million people showed up to fight for the environment on the first Earth Day. More than five decades later, is it time for this ... Show More
29m 12s
Jun 2022
How do we fix recycling?
Tai tries to do his part by recycling whenever he can. But it turns out just tossing stuff into the blue bin doesn't do a whole lot: less than 10 percent of our plastic waste actually gets recycled, with the rest either ending up in landfill, burned or shipped overseas! How did w ... Show More
30m 46s
Jun 2022
Why do we laugh?
Laughing makes us feel real good, whether you’re in on the joke or not. But does it serve a specific purpose? Why do we find some jokes hilarious and others to be total groaners? In this episode, Tai peels the science and sociology of laughter down to its evolutionary roots. In t ... Show More
25m 45s
Recommended Episodes
Feb 2022
Why do we like sugar so much?
Marshmallows, lollipops, gummi bears -- we want them all! But we’ve all heard that eating a lot of sugar isn’t that healthy for us. So what’s the deal? Why do we like sugar so much in the first place? We’ll find out why our bodies evolved to seek out sweet things, and how clever ... Show More
28m 43s
Aug 2025
Treats!
<p>What's the best treat of all-time?</p> <p> </p> <p>From the food science of sugar rushes to the bellies of hungry musicians, Andrew &amp; Polly ask their friends what makes a good treat. Sensory scientist Dr. Sara Yang explains how people evolved to think about food, why we li ... Show More
27m 14s
Jul 2013
Eating!
In this episode, we ask: Why do some foods taste better to adults than kids? And what happens to food once you’re done tasting it? See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information. 
21m 18s
Apr 2023
Why do we like some foods, but not others?
Do you have a favorite food that your friend doesn't like at all? Do you look at what your parents are eating and say, "No, thank you!" Well, you’re not alone! Lots of people have different food preferences. But why do some people like certain foods and others don’t? And what’s a ... Show More
34m 21s
Mar 2023
137. Are We All Addicted to Ultra-Processed Foods?
tail spinning
36m 59s
Jul 2018
Salty snack science: Popcorn, nachos and the origins of salt
We're having a snack attack in this episode and we're using it as an excuse to delve into the facts and history of some of our favorite snacks. How does popcorn pop? Who invented nachos? And where does salt come from? Plus, our Moment of Um tells us all about salt's buddy: pepper ... Show More
35m 7s
May 2020
E03 Does it even matter?
İn this episode you will learn about why people eat and do you need "superfood" ... We will see what are your brains favorite snacks, and 2 movies you should watch if you love food as i do! Enjoy ...and don't forget to share this episode with your friends. 
19m 39s
Jan 2021
Anybody Want a Snack?
What's your opinion on charcuterie boards? This week, the moms talk about their favorite and least favorite things to munch on, plus, a snack-related fan question.This episode is sponsored by:HoneyAcorn TV (Promo code: mom)Pipette (Promo code: mom)Be sure to follow Because Mom Sa ... Show More
45m 54s
Jul 2025
Short Stuff: Bliss Point
The food we eat – especially the junk food – is a highly engineered technical marvel that’s designed to make you want nothing other than more! more! more! Learn about how food scientists make that possible by hijacking our brains.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy informatio ... Show More
14m 45s