Talking Biotech with Dr. Kevin Folta

Social media teems with false information about food and farming.  Influencers cover Instagram and Facebook with claims that food is poison and farmers are "dousing" crops in dangerous chemicals. It is a disinformation campaign that is founded on the fact that Americans make poor food and lifestyle choices, but instead of blaming our behaviors, they blame food and medicine, pushing bogus high-profit alternatives. But is there something nefarious here?  Has this online suspicion of our medical and food systems seeded by interests wishing to turn citizens against farmers and regulators, opting instead for fake alternatives and bogus nostrums?  It is a viable hypothesis. The war on seed oils, glyphosate and genetically engineered crops has re-ignited, despite minimal, if any, risk. Senate testimony by podcaster and "integrative nutritionist" Courtney Swan is dissected to demonstrate how wildly incorrect these folks are-- when speaking before a US Senate commitee!  This is how disinformation spread and now is being used to influence the highest eschelons of federal government. This all appears to be science and reason losing a damaging disinformation campaign using the internet and its complicit influencers to harm food and national security. 

In this episode of the Talking Biotech podcast, Kevin Folta interviews John Rizk, a pharmacist and epidemiologist, about M-Pox (formerly known as monkeypox). They discuss the emergence of M-Pox, its characteristics, transmission, symptoms, and recovery. The conversation also covers risk factors, diagnosis, vaccination strategies, treatment options, and the importance of health equity in access to vaccines. John emphasizes the need for more research and randomized control trials to better understand and manage M-Pox.

n this episode, Dr. Kevin Folta speaks with Joe Damond about the rapidly evolving landscape of life sciences, particularly focusing on gene and cell therapies. They discuss the exciting advancements in medical technology, the economic challenges associated with developing new therapies, and the implications for healthcare systems and patient access. The conversation also touches on the role of providers in administering these advanced treatments, the global disparities in access to innovative therapies, and the regulatory challenges that need to be addressed. Finally, they explore the potential of AI in transforming healthcare and the importance of ensuring equitable access to new medical technologies.

In this episode of the Talking Biotech podcast, Kevin Folta interviews Jenny Du, co-founder and senior vice president of operations at Apeel, a company focused on reducing food waste through innovative post-harvest technology. They discuss the significant issue of food waste, particularly in fresh produce, and how Apeel's products work to extend the shelf life of fruits and vegetables by addressing moisture loss and oxidation. The conversation delves into the science behind Appeal's technology, the sustainability of its ingredients, and the broader implications of food waste on food security and greenhouse gas emissions. In this conversation, Jenny Du discusses the challenges of extending the shelf life of produce, particularly avocados, and the role of technology in improving food supply chains. She addresses misconceptions about her company and emphasizes consumer awareness regarding food technologies. The discussion also touches on the potential for increasing produce diversity and the impact of post-harvest technologies on food security.