Ep 2. Jam, Jelly, and Juice

Jam, Jelly, and Juice are the focus of the second episode of Qi season 11. Host Sandi Toksvig leads a group of esteemed panelists as they explore the world of preserves and beverages.

Joining Sandi on the panel are Alan Davies, Phill Jupitus, Zoe Lyons, and Ross Noble. They engage in a series of thought-provoking discussions about jam, jelly, and juice. The first discussion centers on the history of these preserves and their cultural significance. The panelists examine how jams and jellies have been made and used throughout history, from ancient Egypt to the present day.

Next, the panelists explore the science behind jam, jelly, and juice. They discuss how these preserves are made, why they gel or don't gel, and the role of pectin in the process. The panelists also delve into the nutritional value of these preserves, examining the benefits and drawbacks of consuming them.

The episode also features a series of humorous anecdotes and surreal tangents, as is typical of Qi episodes. For instance, the panelists discuss the origins of the expression "jam tomorrow," which stems from Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland. They also examine the history of the Jaffa Cake and determine whether it is indeed a cake or a biscuit.

Throughout the episode, Sandi challenges the panelists with a series of Qi-style questions and puzzles. They must use their quick wit and creative thinking to solve these brain-teasers. For example, Sandi asks the panelists to identify a mystery word that contains a silent letter.

As always, the episode concludes with an entertaining and informative "General Ignorance" round, where the panelists compete to see who can answer the most Qi-style questions correctly.

Overall, Jam, Jelly, and Juice is a fun and fascinating episode that explores the world of preserves and beverages. The panelists' lively discussion, combined with Sandi's ebullient hosting, make for a highly entertaining episode that will appeal to anyone interested in food, history, and culture.