The Ingredient Panel

An introduction to how companies (often) come up with new products to launch. The crew discusses the innovation pipeline, a bunch of boring processes, and some more fun ways new products come to market. This week's guest is Imaide Steverango, the R&D Manager for NutureLife, a meal delivery company for kids.

Food processing aids do not need to be declared on a label according to the FDA. In this episode we talk about what they are, how they are used, and why they don't need to be declared. It's not as boring as it sounds! Plus we talk about insects! The actual language on processing aids from the CFR Don't read this link until after you've eaten

We crave "umami", the fifth taste. Every global cuisine has a source of umami, yet MSG, monosodium glutamate, is seen as a villain in packaged food. Join as as we discuss MSG, the flavor of Umami, and glutamic acid, which as glutamate is responsible for the delicious flavor that makes everything taste better! References: This American Life Episode about the letter that gave birth to Chinese Restaurant Syndrome Colgate Magazine's Overview of the Chinese Restaurant Syndrome Letter/...

Why do packaged foods need added gums when the food you make at home never does? Join us as we talk about how gums (also known as hydrocolloids) end up in your food and for what purpose. Links: Guest Lela Squire Gum Primer FDA Regulations on Gums Recent Carageenan Study

Have you heard about Upcycling? Join us for a crash course in all things food waste. In this episode we talk with Caroline Cotto, the cofounder and COO of Renewal Mill, an ingredient, mix, and cookie company that is taking a new approach to the circular food economy. Caroline goes deep into the issues of food waste and how Renewal Mill, and the new Upcycled Food Association, are bringing attention and money into the food renewal space. Renewal Mill Upcycled Food Association RePurpose G...