Processed meats cause cancer, controversial paeleontology and willy wonka vegetables

Thursday, 12 November 2015 - 8:30am to 9:00am

This week we look at confronting health science, controversial paelontology and confusing physiology.

You may have heard of the World Health Organisation's landmark study which puts processed meats such as bacon, sausage and ham alongside tobacco and asbestos as a class 1 cancer causing substance. But what what does this classification really mean for lovers of small goods and what other scientific studies can help inform whether to choose an extra side of bacon at brunch?

Also this week, we take a second look into the discovery of Homo naledi, but this time the controversy surrounding the discovery. Unlike some paeleontologists who jealously guard their work, Lee Berger published quickly to an open source journal, and has made the 3D model of Homo naledi's fossilised skeleton available for download around the world. But not everyone in the field agrees with his modern approach to this prehistoric science. 

And finally, did you know Willy Wonka's oompa loompas are a reality for some people who eat too many carrots? We look at how vegetable pigments can change your colour from the inside out. 

Claire, Chris & Stu
Thursday 8:30am to 9:00am
Entertaining news and discussion about research that has impact on society and providing a wide range of science and technology news. Distributed nationally on the Community Radio Network.

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Chris Lassig, Stuart Burns and Claire Farrugia and others.

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