Why Caterpillars Are Responsible for Wasabi

Some of our favorite nose-burning condiments—including wasabi and horseradish—are apparently the product of an eons-long battle between caterpillars and plants. In the latest publication of “Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences,” scientists reveal that a chemical war began 90 million years ago between cabbage caterpillars and plants from the order Brassicales, eventually pushing plants to create intense mustard oil flavors to defend themselves. Fast-forward …

Futuristic Floating Farms

A rapidly expanding global population, combined with water scarcity in prevalent farming areas make for a grim future. To address impending food shortages, Javier F. Ponce and Jakub Dycha have designed a futuristic floating farm that isn’t too far from reality. The three-story structure incorporates aquaculture, hydroponics and photovoltaics to sustainably and dependably produce a range of crops and fish that, in theory, could feed …

Noshi Edible Food Paint for Kids

A foolproof, playful way to get children to eat their veggies

As a parent, it can be an endless struggle to get kids settled and fed at mealtime. All kids seem to want to do is play, which is why the team behind Noshi (Tomo Delaney and Pegi Gorelick) has come up with a way to trick kids into eating their fruits and veggies, while keeping them engaged and entertained. Noshi’s Edible Food Paint pouches make …