food science

Why Some Rhubarb is Grown in the Dark

In the absence of light, the plant uses its own energy stores.

How the Perfect Pancake Recipe May Help Us Treat Glaucoma

These researchers tested 14 recipes in the name of science.

The Scientific Secret to Perfect Nachos

The folks at the American Chemical Society have got you covered for game day.

Does Chicken Soup Help a Cold?

It looks like your parents were on to something.

This Is How Sound Affects the Way Your Food Tastes

Test it for yourself.

Brewer's Yeast Creates Love Nests in Wasps' Digestive Tracts

Yeast breeds best in insect intestines, a new study finds.

What Keeps Honey From Spoiling?

A new infographic from Compound Interest explains how this astonishing substance is made.

This French Power Plant Runs on Cheese

Leave it to the French.

Dvortygirl via Wikimedia Commons // CC BY-SA 3.0

Canadian Scientists Find Medicinal Properties in Maple Syrup Compound

An anti-inflammatory compound in the syrup may inspire new drugs.

The Chemistry of Truffle Stank

The truffle’s signature stench is the result of hundreds of chemical compounds.

Eating in Front of a Mirror Can Make Junk Food Less Delicious

A scientist says our perception of taste can be affected by self-judgment.

How Do Antarctic Scientists Eat Fresh Eggs?

It involves a party.

‘Healthy’ Foods May Be Better for Some People Than Others

After finding that food affects each person’s blood sugar differently, scientists devised an algorithm that may help create personalized diet plans.

Can Drinking Champagne Really Save Your Memory?

The results of a 2013 study on champagne and memory resurfaced this week, prompting bottle-popping across the Internet.

Exhibit Sets Out to Prove Jellyfish Cupcakes Can Be Delicious

Ocean experts worried about jellyfish overpopulation might take some cues from a pastry chef.

Neil Conway via Wikimedia Commons // CC-BY-SA 2.0

Caramel Apples Linked to Deadly Listeria Infection

But don't give up on them just yet.

Hypoallergenic? Organic? 8 Product Terms That Don't Mean Much

Despite regulation by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the manufacturers of food, drink, hygiene, and other products don’t always make it easy to understand what’s in your soda pop or sunblock—especially when the terms they use don’t actually