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A keg of beer-based science

A 150-year-old bottle of Arctic Ale is being uncapped, which got the team talking about all things yeast and beer.

A 150-year-old bottle of Arctic Ale is being uncapped, which got the team talking about all things related to yeast, beer, and opening things.

First, we hear about a rare condition where the body brews its own alcohol. Next up, we find out that small amounts of alcohol make male fruit flies more attractive.

We鈥檙e then joined in the studio by food historian Pen Vogler, who helps us travel back in time to explore beer鈥檚 origins.

Next, we discover how air pollution is affecting our brains, and delve into some surprising ways that yeast could help the climate.

All that, plus many more Unexpected Elements.

Presenter: Marnie Chesterton, with Chhavi Sachdev and Candice Bailey
Producers: Alice Lipscombe-Southwell, with Lucy Davies and Robbie Wojciechowski

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50 minutes

Last on

Sun 16 Nov 2025 20:06GMT

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  • Sun 16 Nov 2025 20:06GMT

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