Cassava has routinely poisoned the unwary, and yet those used to it can make it safe. How? And what does it teach us about the hidden social forces that support a modern economy?
Cassava roots are a vital source of calories in tropical countries. They are also a puzzle: cassava is highly toxic, and to be made safe it requires a tedious and complex preparation ritual. Plants such as cassava have routinely poisoned the unwary, and yet societies who are accustomed to it manage to make it safe despite all the hurdles. Tim Harford asks how humans have learned to do this without dropping dead. And what does cassava teach us about the hidden social forces that support a modern economy?
Producer: Ben Crighton
Editor: Richard Vadon
Last on
More episodes
Previous
Broadcasts
- Mon 11 Nov 2019 13:45成人快手 Radio 4
- Mon 27 Jul 2020 23:30成人快手 Radio 4
Download this programme
Listen to this series anytime, anywhere. Full series available now.