Friday, 25 May, 2012

Genetic engineering may not be the best way to make more food; plant breeding remains vital. As grain production flattens, should we be supporting more plant breeders?

Mice lacking the SCD-1 gene can’t get fat and don’t have diabetes. Is this interesting to you?

Could a drastic restriction on calories extend your lifespan? Hint: It works for fish, flies and monkeys…

Diamonds, mating and chocolate: three necessities of Valentine’s Day.

Fungus that caused Irish potato famine is back, threatening potato crops around the world. How did the blight change world history, and what is being done to prevent another blight?

How did agriculture start, and when did it reach chilly Scandinavia? When were crops domesticated, and what were the first crops? How did domestication change crop genes and human society?

Food-borne diseases sicken 76 million Americans each year. Lots of bugs can make you sick, especially in meat. Does farm use of antibiotics pose a special risk?

How safe is genetically modified food? Was this test a legitimate study, or was its conclusion based on faulty methods?

Europe bans American beef. How safe are hormone-treated beef and genetically engineered food?

Spices and flavorings can be good for your health. Onion, garlic, hot pepper: They don’t just taste good…