I want to preface this column by reminding you that April Fool’s Day is past, so as you read these stories, please know I have checked the facts.

They might sound wacky, but they are all true. Sometimes it takes crazy innovations to get to the place – or the taste—we like the most.

The evolution of our species is closely linked with food. Did you know our increased intelligence and ingenuity has much to do with eating a more diverse diet? When early humans started eating cabbage, maize and root vegetables (all rich in nutrients and energy), their brains received more energy and became more developed. Having a bigger brain meant we could distinguish between bitter (possibly poisonous) foods and better-tasting foods that were more nutritious. It also helped us develop social groups, which meant it was easier to protect people’s safety and hunt more successfully.

Sharing ideas helped us innovate with food storage and transportation and generally improved our quality of life. As people have moved around the world, so has our food. When food is adopted by new cultures it is often prepared in new ways.

I recently acquired a new book........

© Castanet