The hottest Food & Drink Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Food & Drink Topics

Knowing how it's made

let them eat cake • 159 implied HN points • 30 May 19
🍲 Food & Drink Food Systems Recipes
  1. The food industry often focuses on humane treatment of animals, but neglects the well-being of workers
  2. There is a lack of transparency in food systems regarding labor conditions
  3. Consumer choices may inadvertently support companies with poor worker treatment practices

Cultured meat and the problem of "naturalness"

The Counterfactual • 19 implied HN points • 16 Jan 23
🍲 Food & Drink Consumer behavior Food technology Sustainability
  1. People often think cultured meat is unnatural, which makes them hesitant to eat it. This feeling comes from a fear of trying new foods and being disgusted by the idea of lab-grown meat.
  2. Discussions around meat can shift when we point out that conventional meat production is also unnatural. Many people are surprised to learn how modern farming practices are much different from what might be considered natural.
  3. It helps to show cultured meat as food rather than as a lab product. When people see it served in a plate instead of in a lab, they tend to feel more positive about it.

we're as disappointed as you are

let them eat cake • 139 implied HN points • 09 Aug 19
🍲 Food & Drink Cuisine Restaurants Baking Food Systems
  1. The author shares an announcement about doing a popup at a restaurant to make Peranakan food and mention a newsletter about monopolies and politics.
  2. The author expresses disappointment at not having an essay that week due to a hectic schedule but does share interesting links on various topics from trashfires to baked goods.
  3. The author wraps up the post with a heartfelt message thanking readers, encouraging support by sharing the newsletter, and offering to buy coffee for those interested in connecting.

no. 42: socialmedia megamerger superstar

let them eat cake • 59 implied HN points • 30 May 21
🍲 Food & Drink Restaurant Industry Consumer behavior Systemic change
  1. The social justice movement has shed light on the issues in the restaurant industry, particularly concerning working conditions and pay.
  2. There is a challenge in implementing significant changes in the industry due to financial constraints and the low profit margins in restaurants.
  3. Consumers play a crucial role in driving change by supporting restaurants that prioritize treating their staff well, but currently, there isn't enough focus on this aspect in the dining experience.

The Haves and the Havents Part 5

Carefree Sketches • 39 implied HN points • 02 Jan 22
🍲 Food & Drink Food history Food culture
  1. Food preferences of the wealthy often have historical origins tied to times of scarcity or risk, where consuming aged or rare delicacies was a necessity that evolved into a symbol of extravagance.
  2. The pursuit of unique and potentially dangerous foods represents a delicate balance between risk and reward, highlighting the connection between life, death, and culinary indulgence.
  3. Food culture and gastronomic experiences are often shaped by historical challenges and reflective of societies where indulgence is a luxury reserved for the well-off.
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175 | Phyto-whatsit toxin? | Smoked Meat Safety | Announcing Our New and Improved Index

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Cooking tips Nutrition
  1. Phytohaemagglutinin is a natural toxin found in raw beans that can cause serious stomach issues if not cooked properly. Always soak beans for at least 5 hours and boil them for at least 10 minutes to keep safe.
  2. Legumes are great sources of plant-based protein, but they can also carry antinutrients that affect nutrient absorption. It's important to know how to prepare them to maximize their benefits.
  3. Food professionals should be aware of cross-reactivity between different legumes, as some people can have allergies to multiple types. Proper knowledge can help avoid dangerous allergic reactions.

Bastard crustaceans and crusty bastards

let them eat cake • 159 implied HN points • 27 Feb 19
🍲 Food & Drink Food Systems Food Processing
  1. We are moving towards creating sustainable seafood like shrimp made from algae to address issues like overfishing and climate change.
  2. The food industry is focusing on synthesizing specific parts of seafood like peeled, headless, tailless shrimp to cater to what consumers in America prefer to eat.
  3. The evolution of food technology aims to provide accessible food experiences similar to traditional ones, but it also reflects a shift in societal values and priorities.

125 | Global Recall Report Card | 5 Mini Case Studies | Floor Salmon | Chlorates in Food |

The Rotten Apple • 31 implied HN points • 12 Feb 24
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Recalls
  1. Food safety breaches and frauds are being detected and individuals or companies involved are facing prosecution, sentencing, and significant fines.
  2. The business allegedly involved in lead contamination of cinnamon is no longer operational, showing the severe consequences of such actions.
  3. The global report on food recalls provides insights into the main causes of recalls in different regions such as the USA, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and New Zealand.

123 | Case Study: Tiramisu Allergen Death | Food Contact Packaging |

The Rotten Apple • 31 implied HN points • 29 Jan 24
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Packaging Food Regulations Food Fraud
  1. The tragic case of a person dying from an allergic reaction to a 'vegan' dessert highlights the importance of food safety regulations and diligence in manufacturing processes.
  2. Some food businesses do not adequately communicate allergen risks, leading to preventable deaths and possible legal actions.
  3. Confusion between 'vegan' and 'allergen-free' labeling poses risks for allergic consumers and highlights the need for clearer regulations and diligent practices in food production.

mushrooms, undoubtedly.

let them eat cake • 99 implied HN points • 14 Apr 20
🍲 Food & Drink Restaurants Hospitality Home Cooking
  1. The pandemic will deeply impact the restaurant scene in America, causing long-lasting changes in how businesses operate and how people dine out
  2. The aftermath of the pandemic may lead to new trends like a rise in delis, informal caterers, and pop-up restaurants due to economic challenges and shifting consumer habits
  3. There is potential for a major shift in the restaurant industry towards management agreements over traditional tenant-landlord arrangements, along with a possible migration of independent restaurants from major cities to small towns

There's a reason for the safety valve

let them eat cake • 139 implied HN points • 23 May 19
🍲 Food & Drink Food Systems Food Critique Food experiences
  1. The book 'Pressure Cooker' critiques the food pundits who suggest fixing diets before the economy, highlighting how structural obstacles impact people's ability to cook and eat the way experts recommend.
  2. Many individuals do not have the luxury of opting out of the conventional industrial food system, making them complicit in the human and environmental exploitation ingrained within it.
  3. Workers in the food system, including vulnerable families, often lack control over what they eat due to poor labor practices and structural injustices within the system.

A supposedly fun thing I keep on having to do

let them eat cake • 139 implied HN points • 15 May 19
🍲 Food & Drink Cooking Farming Food Systems Newsletter
  1. Pig butchery involves careful preparation and techniques like scalding and sawing for meat extraction - showcasing traditional methods in the process.
  2. Tamworth pigs are a heritage breed known for their adaptability and taste, even though they are no longer widely kept due to challenges like difficult bristle removal.
  3. Butchery processes like sausage-making require specific equipment and organization, leading to a large-scale production and consumption scenario on the farm.

counterfactual pastry development

let them eat cake • 119 implied HN points • 04 Oct 19
🍲 Food & Drink Baking Cooking techniques Food Systems
  1. Different pastries have intricate details in their making process that significantly impact their taste and texture.
  2. Traditional recipes and methods influence food homogeneity across regions, but also limit innovation and variation.
  3. Innovations in pastry recipes can lead to improved taste and texture, challenging traditional norms and potentially creating new delicious options.

no. 46: come eat

let them eat cake • 39 implied HN points • 14 Nov 21
🍲 Food & Drink Cooking Cuisine Recipes Cultural influence
  1. The author invites readers to enjoy food they have prepared at upcoming events in the Boston area.
  2. Food does not always have to be photogenic to be delicious, challenging the idea that all food needs to look good.
  3. The concept of food having a distinct single origin story is questioned, highlighting the complex and interconnected nature of culinary traditions.

171 | The Food Fraud That Wasn't | E. coli Onions Follow-up |

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Food Processing Food Regulations Consumer Health
  1. The recent E. coli outbreak linked to onions at McDonald's sickened many, raising concerns about the hygiene practices at the supplier, Taylor Farms.
  2. There were serious food safety breaches found during FDA inspections at the supplier, including dirty equipment and inadequate handwashing protocols.
  3. A case about fruit juice showed that what seems like fraud may not always be; sometimes it's just a difference in regional practices regarding ingredient usage.

What I'm Reading-Related Posts

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Food Supply Food Defence
  1. The Rotten Apple covers a wide range of topics related to food, including safety and sustainability. This helps people stay informed about important issues in the food industry.
  2. You can find archived articles on what the author is currently reading, which adds a personal touch and may introduce you to new content.
  3. The platform encourages users to subscribe for more content, offering a free trial to explore a variety of posts and topics.

Just for Fun-Related Posts

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Supply Chains Food Defence Packaging
  1. The Rotten Apple shares fun articles across various topics, including food safety and supply chains. You can explore these topics to learn more about food-related issues.
  2. There is a section called 'Just for Fun' where you can find light-hearted articles. This part offers a break from the serious content and adds some enjoyment.
  3. To find specific information quickly on their page, you can use the 'Ctrl + F' command. This makes it easy to search for any word you're interested in.

Packaging Corner-Related Posts

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Supply Chains Food Regulations Food Tech
  1. The site covers important topics like food safety and ethical supply chains, helping readers stay informed. It's a great resource for understanding how food is produced and handled.
  2. There are lots of articles in the 'Packaging Corner' that you can link to for more information about packaging in the food industry. This can help you learn about different packaging technologies and their implications.
  3. You can try a 7-day free trial to access more posts and archives, making it easy to explore various topics related to food production.

Food Defence-Related Posts

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Supply Chains Food Defence Food Tech
  1. The Rotten Apple shares articles on various food-related topics, including food safety and fraud. This helps readers learn more about important issues in the food industry.
  2. It features content on sustainable and ethical supply chains, highlighting their importance to consumers today. This shows a commitment to responsible food practices.
  3. The site encourages engagement by allowing users to search articles easily. This makes it user-friendly for anyone interested in specific topics.

Food Supply Chains (General)-Related Posts

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 12 Jan 25
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Food Regulations Food Tech
  1. Food supply chains affect how safe and reliable our food is. Understanding these systems can help us avoid issues like food fraud.
  2. Sustainable and ethical supply chains are important for a healthier planet. Choosing food that supports these practices can make a big difference.
  3. There are many topics related to food supply chains, including food safety, regulations, and new technology. Staying informed can help consumers make better choices.

Lobby restaurant / lobby bar

let them eat cake • 139 implied HN points • 20 Feb 19
🍲 Food & Drink Restaurant Menu Review Drinks
  1. The post discusses the opening of a new food establishment called Bang Bar, which serves shawarma in a unique fast-casual concept
  2. It highlights the contrast between the traditional approach to food preparation and the modern, industrialized methods used at Bang Bar
  3. The story also shares a personal anecdote about the author's father enjoying a nostalgic drink at a unique bar in Singapore

a collection of breakfasts

let them eat cake • 119 implied HN points • 26 Jul 19
🍲 Food & Drink Cuisine Recipes Dining Experience Food culture
  1. The Long Bar at Raffles Hotel in Singapore underwent significant changes through ownership shifts and renovations, resulting in a more sophisticated cocktail-making process.
  2. Breakfast in Singapore includes diverse dishes like _ham chim peng_, _mee pok tar_, and Teochew _kueh_, reflecting unique local flavors and culinary traditions.
  3. The writer's newsletter, 'let them eat cake,' focuses on food systems and is a free labor of love, aiming to develop a platform as a writer by engaging with readers through social media and encouraging support.

In a word, no.

let them eat cake • 119 implied HN points • 22 Jun 19
🍲 Food & Drink Restaurant Industry Work Environment Labor Issues Mental health Hospitality
  1. It's important for employers in the restaurant industry to prioritize the emotional and mental health of their staff, even in ways that may seem unconventional.
  2. Simply paying employees better and providing health insurance can have a significant impact on reducing turnover and improving overall well-being in the workplace.
  3. Addressing the fundamental issues of low wages and stressful working conditions is crucial in creating a healthier and more sustainable environment for hospitality professionals.

Issue #92 | Mystery Toxin Solved? | Food Scientists are 'Baddies'? (Join the Conversation) | Sanitising Harvest Equipment |

The Rotten Apple • 42 implied HN points • 12 Jun 23
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Science Food Industry Food Fraud
  1. Mystery toxin in tara flour was possibly identified by toxicologists after causing numerous illnesses.
  2. Food scientists may contribute to making highly processed foods addictive, but the blame lies with the profit-driven food industry.
  3. Cleaning and sanitizing harvest equipment, especially for raw vegetables, is crucial for preventing foodborne illness outbreaks.

19% Off MASA Chips

Harnessing the Power of Nutrients • 19 implied HN points • 06 Sep 22
🍲 Food & Drink Discounts
  1. 19% discount on MASA chips available through a coupon code and rebate offer.
  2. The MASA chips are made from organic corn from small New England farms, nixtamalized for a unique flavor.
  3. The post is accessible for paid subscribers only, showcasing offers and details exclusive to them.

Around the farm

Who is Robert Malone • 46 implied HN points • 11 Apr 23
🍲 Food & Drink Balance
  1. Spring has finally arrived around the farm.
  2. The farm chores are being caught up on, with the vehicles and tools fixed and ready for spring.
  3. This post can be accessed by paid subscribers only.

Bigger than anyone better

let them eat cake • 119 implied HN points • 24 Apr 19
🍲 Food & Drink Bakery Ingredients Production Business
  1. The Balthazar bakery in New Jersey has grown significantly over the years, becoming one of the largest artisanal bakeries in New York, supplying many restaurants and cafes.
  2. Even at a large scale, the bakery faces limitations in sourcing flours and ingredients, having to rely on a few main suppliers for consistency and reliability.
  3. The bakery has seen a shift towards viennoiserie products due to increased demand for carbs at breakfast, emphasizing the importance of handwork over complete automation.

Issue #88 | Food Investigators | How to Spot a Food Fraud Perp | Eating Ochratoxin A | The Nutella Empire |

The Rotten Apple • 42 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud
  1. Watch out for ochratoxin A in your food - it's a complex concern with potential health risks.
  2. Food fraud comes in various forms with different motivations, from financial gain to deception.
  3. Learn how to spot food fraud perpetrators through red flags like previous convictions and suspect certificates.

168 | What's Going on With Italian-Chinese Tomato Puree? | GM to the Rescue |

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 09 Dec 24
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Agriculture Consumer behavior Supply Chain
  1. Some Italian tomato purees sold in the UK and Germany might contain Chinese tomatoes, raising questions about food labeling and consumer trust. It's not clear if this is legally fraudulent or just a complicated supply chain issue.
  2. There are concerns that tomato suppliers from China may use forced labor, which complicates the legal responsibilities for retailers. Supermarkets need to be aware of their suppliers' practices to avoid compliance issues.
  3. Sugar taxes in some American cities have shown to effectively reduce purchases of sugary drinks, especially among lower-income households. This indicates that financial incentives can change consumer behavior.

Cookbook for the Poor

The False Consensus Effect • 39 implied HN points • 07 May 21
🍲 Food & Drink Cooking methods French cuisine
  1. The author shares stories and reflections on the importance of cooking and experimenting with food, even when living on a tight budget.
  2. A review of a French restaurant in Cahors showcases the author's experience with slow-food culture and traditional French cuisine.
  3. The author provides a glimpse into personal memories and encounters, illustrating a blend of food, travel, and self-discovery.

Food Safety News and Resources | December

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 01 Dec 24
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food recalls Food Industry
  1. There have been cucumber recalls in the USA and Canada due to salmonella cases, affecting many people. It's important to stay updated on food recalls to stay safe.
  2. A previous recall of green onions was canceled because it was a lab error. This shows how crucial it is to confirm results before acting on food safety alerts.
  3. Recent tests found harmful substances like PFAS in fish and cadmium in tomatoes. These findings highlight the need for ongoing monitoring of our food sources.

Issue #85 | Risk Management Science vs Politics | Wasabi Fraud | Synbio and HFSS Foods Explained | Goats Eating Tomatoes |

The Rotten Apple • 42 implied HN points • 24 Apr 23
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Food Science Risk management Food Industry
  1. Risk management in food safety is more of a political process than a scientific one.
  2. Most wasabi paste we consume is fake, made with horseradish, but still has antibacterial properties.
  3. Synthetic biology in food production and the term HFSS (high in fat, salt, sugar) are emerging concepts in food science.

166 | Salmonella Deep Dive | Anatomy of a Wine Theft |

The Rotten Apple • 10 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Food Fraud Nutrition Culinary Arts Food Industry
  1. Salmonella is a bacteria that can cause sickness by invading the intestines after being consumed, often through contaminated food or water.
  2. There is a rising trend of food thefts where criminals use fake identities to trick food businesses into giving away valuable products without payment.
  3. Food safety is important; businesses should verify new buyers and suppliers to prevent buying stolen goods or falling victim to scams.

130 | Food Safety Training Exercise | FSSC Updates | When Flies Eat |

The Rotten Apple • 21 implied HN points • 18 Mar 24
🍲 Food & Drink Food Safety Packaging Food Fraud Food news
  1. Food safety training exercise available for front-line workers to enhance food safety practices.
  2. Updates on FSSC version 6 standards include focus on food safety culture, quality control, and reduction of food loss and waste.
  3. Packaging industry updates: PFAS phase-out in the US, impact of packaging colors on consumer perception, sale of a packaging factory confiscated from a Russian oligarch.