Does absinthe really cause hallucinations?

When absinthe was banned in many other countries in the early 1900s, it had really fallen out of favor. Find out what effects absinthe really has on those who drink it.

How Cheese Works

Cheese is everywhere. But what exactly is it? Where does it come from, how is it made -- and why is some of it so stinky?

How do I know if the meat I'm eating is from cloned livestock?

Cloned-animal products could be welcome in U.S. grocery stores by the end of 2007. But technically, you may already have been eating them.

How Fast Food Works

Unless you're in a particularly remote area, you can't go far in most developed countries without finding a fast-food restaurant. Learn how fast-food restaurants came to be and why they're so popular.

How Food Works

Ever wonder what, exactly, you are putting in your body when you eat? Would you like to know the real difference between a "fat" and a "carb"? Learn all about food and how your body uses it!

How Freeze-Drying Works

Remember "astronaut ice cream"? That was freeze-dried. You can find freeze-dried spaghetti and meatballs and even omelets. Find out what "freeze-dried" means and how such a state is achieved.

How Salt Works

Not only do we need to consume salt, we also need it for a variety of nonfood uses. But if it's so important, why do health organizations recommend that we closely watch our intake? Apparently, there can be too much of a good thing. Learn what happens when we overload on salt or get too little of it.

How Spam Works

Spam has been inspiring obsession and revulsion since the Great Depression. What exactly makes people so passionate about it?

How Synthehol Works

What if we could enjoy all of the pleasurable effects of alcohol, without having to worry about the harmful side effects? Learn about synthehol and other alternatives to alcohol.

Is there something in turkey that makes you sleepy?

It's Thanksgiving Day and your waistband is groaning, and you're heavy-lidded as you lift one more forkful of pumpkin pie to your mouth. Some say that tryptophan, an amino acid found in turkey, could make you sleepy. Is it a case of the tryptophan blues, or overeating?

Food Facts

Food facts teach us about the food we eat and how to cook it easily. Get food facts, cooking tips, recipes, and nutritional information on everything from baking flour to bell peppers to pork.

How Olive Oil Works

Olive oil is one of the most versatile ingredients you'll find at the grocery store. Knowing how it gets from the tree to your table will help you understand how to get the most out of it.

How much sugar do they really put in soft drinks?

You know soda pop isn't the greatest drink to consume, but do you know how much sugar they really put in soft drinks? Find out the answer here.

How Vinegar Works

Vinegar is a must-have ingredient for vinaigrettes, marinades, food preservation, or any recipe that needs a little extra kick. You'll be astounded at all the things this seemingly simple condiment can do.

Salt Images