Before you listen to this BBC podcast, I'd like to introduce myself.

My name's Stevie Middleton and I'm a BBC Commissioner for a Load of Sport Podcasts.

I'm lucky to do that at the BBC because I get to work with a leading journalist, experienced

pundits and the biggest sport stars.

Together we bring you untold stories and fascinating insights straight from the players'

mouths.

But the best thing about doing this at the BBC is our unique access to the sport in world.

What that means is that we can bring you podcasts that create a real connection to

dedicated sports fans across the UK.

So if you like this podcast, head over to BBC Sounds where you'll find plenty more.

Welcome to the podcast of Inside Science, first broadcast on the 22nd of December 2022.

So yes, this is the Christmas episode.

Because across the country, radio for listeners will be last minute Christmas shopping,

wrapping gifts and most importantly, finalising a menu for Christmas dinner.

And science is here to help.

Because if you can't use the collective knowledge of thousands of years of human curiosity

and experimentation to cook slightly superior festive fare, what use is it all?

So for next half hour, join me in my kitchen as I'm standing on the shoulders of giants

in order to cook a better turkey, debate the disliking of sprouts, explore the origins of

Christmas spices and find out why all the eating and drinking might make you need a snooze

in an armchair afterwards.

I'm joined by my producer, Emily.

...