Eating Tomorrow: Food Science Wonders

July 2013
Smithsonian Magazine

Eating Tomorrow: Food Science Wonders

Introduction

Dive into the world of food innovation with Smithsonian Magazine's latest scoop—where kale becomes a popsicle and Twinkies defy time! Discover how the Summer Fancy Food Show turned the tables with Kalelicious Smoothie Pops, challenging bacon's reign, and explore how science is sweetening up the deal for healthy eats. From emotional coffee studies to Twinkies' surprising comeback, this article is a feast for the curious mind. Get ready to be served the future of food!

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Why It Matters

Discover how this topic shapes your world and future

Tasting Tomorrow - The Science Behind Our Snacks

Imagine a world where your snacks not only taste delicious but are also packed with everything your body needs to thrive. That's not a snippet from a sci-fi novel; it's the reality food science is creating right now. From Kalelicious Smoothie Pops giving bacon a run for its money to Twinkies doubling their shelf life, the blend of taste and science is reshaping what ends up on our plates and in our stomachs. This fusion matters because it's about more than just creating food that lasts longer or packs a nutritional punch; it's about understanding our emotional connections to what we eat and making healthier choices more enjoyable. For you, this could mean a future where your favorite treats are as good for your body as they are for your taste buds. It's a delicious way to think about science and its impact on our daily lives, globally and personally.

Speak like a Scholar

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Food science

The study of the physical, biological, and chemical makeup of food; and the concepts underlying food processing and improvement.

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Antioxidants

Substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals, unwanted molecules that the body produces as a reaction to environmental and other pressures.

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Flavanols

A type of antioxidant found in various foods like tea, grapes, and apples, known for supporting heart health among other benefits.

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Emotional eating

The practice of consuming food in response to feelings, rather than hunger. Emotional attachments to food can influence our eating habits.

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Shelf life

The length of time for which food, drink, medicine, chemicals, and many other perishable items remain suitable for use.

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Nutritional density

A measure of the nutrients a food contains in relation to the calories it provides. High nutritional density foods provide a lot of nutrients for relatively few calories.

Independent Research Ideas

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The psychology of food choices

Investigate how marketing, societal trends, and personal beliefs influence our food selections, especially among teenagers.

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Innovations in food preservation

Explore the latest technologies and methods in extending the shelf life of perishable items without sacrificing nutritional value or taste.

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The impact of antioxidants on adolescent health

A study on how diets rich in antioxidants affect the physical and mental health of teenagers.

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Cultural influences on snack preferences

Examine how different cultures shape snack choices and how global fusion trends create new favorite snacks.

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Emotional connections to food

Delve into how and why certain foods are associated with specific emotions or memories, and how this can be leveraged to create healthier eating habits.