Watch How Stuff Works: Food and Beverage

How Stuff Works: Food and Beverage is a fascinating show on the Discovery Channel that explores the science, history and mechanics behind the food and drinks we consume every day. From the origin of our favorite snacks to the production process of alcoholic beverages, the show delves into the intricate details of how everything works.

The show is hosted by a team of experts who rigorously investigate the various food and beverage products with a scientific and historical lens. Each episode is centered around one specific product and the journey to understand how it is made and why it works the way it does.

What makes this show so entertaining is its ability to take seemingly simple food and drinks and uncover the complexities that make them what they are. For instance, during an episode about coffee, the show explores the elaborate process that goes into making a single cup of coffee, from the growth and harvest of the coffee bean to the roasting and grinding process, and finally, the perfect brewing process.

In another episode, the show explores the humble potato chip, which is one of the most popular snacks in the world. The series explores the history of the potato chip and how it quickly became an American classic snack. They also visit the factory where the chips are made and show how each step is important in producing a perfect crunchy snack.

One of the unique aspects of How Stuff Works: Food and Beverage is its focus on the cultural and historical significance of the products they investigate. For instance, the show explores the history of beer and how it has been consumed throughout human history. The show looks at the role of beer in ancient societies and how it was used as a means of currency as well as a celebratory drink. The episode also deals with the different types of beer produced around the world and the unique brewing processes involved.

Similarly, the show explores the cultural significance of other popular drinks such as tea, wine, and whiskey. It is not just about how these products are made, but also how they have shaped cultures and influenced our daily lives.

Another interesting aspect of the show is its attention to detail. The show is not just about how food and drinks work, but it is also focused on the individual components of each product. For instance, during an episode about cheese, the show dives into the different types of milk used to make cheese and how it affects the different flavors and textures. They also go into detail about the different aging processes and how long a cheese should be aged to reach its optimal flavor.

One of the best things about the show is that it is easy to understand for people who are not experts in food and beverage production. The show takes complex concepts and breaks them down into simple explanations, making it easy for viewers to follow along. Furthermore, the show uses stunning visuals and animations to illustrate the different processes involved in producing each product.

Finally, How Stuff Works: Food and Beverage doesn't shy away from tackling controversial aspects of food production. For instance, during an episode about sugar, the show explores the impact of sugar on human health and the debate surrounding its use in food production. The show takes a balanced approach and presents both the benefits and drawbacks of sugar consumption.

Overall, How Stuff Works: Food and Beverage is an informative and enjoyable show that provides viewers with a wealth of information about the foods and drinks they consume daily. It is a great show for food lovers and anyone who wants to delve deeper into the science and history of the different foods we eat.

How Stuff Works: Food and Beverage is a series that is currently running and has 2 seasons (17 episodes). The series first aired on November 13, 2008.