Sliced Bread

Which eye drops are best for dry eyes?

Listener Carole wakes up each morning with dry, gummed-up eyes. As a result she's built up a small hoard of different eye drops, variously promising to hydrate, soothe, or relieve; and that's only a fraction of the many drops, vials, and ointments out there on the pharmacy shelves. Carole's seen some brands come with premium prices, and others promise to be "preservative-free". She wants to know: are any of them the best thing since sliced bread?

To find out, Greg Foot is joined by consultant corneal and cataract surgeon Bita Manzouri and research optometrist at Aston University Dr Sònia Travé Huarte.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT

Can mushroom gummies really sharpen your mind, reduce stress, and boost your energy?

Listener Daisy has been seeing adverts for mushroom gummies all over her Instagram. These aren't the psychedelic kind of mushrooms - instead they're gummy sweets containing so-called 'functional mushrooms' such as lion's mane and reishi. The companies promise that taking just two a day will provide all sorts of beneficial effects, and some online posts even hint that they can address symptoms of perimenopause and menopause.

But do they actually work?

To find out, Greg Foot is joined by Dr. Nicholas Money, mycologist and science writer at Miami University in Ohio; and Dr. Helen Wall, GP and menopause specialist.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807. RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT

What really helps to treat acne?

Listener Louise got in touch about a subject that affects thousands of people both physically and emotionally. She experienced acne from her teens into adulthood; and now with a daughter herself, is all too aware of the pressures facing young people through social media.

She's keen to find out which of the vast array of over-the-counter treatments work and which ingredients in particular are effective in treating acne.

To get the answers, presenter Greg Foot is joined by consultant dermatologist Dr Emma Wedgeworth and founder of the 'Clear' skincare app, Ahana Banarjee.

We're back with a new series of Sliced Bread and are hungry for your suggestions of wonder products to put through the evidence mill. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Are self-checkouts here to stay or will we soon be paying without scanning or stopping? Greg Foot examines the future of supermarkets and considers wonder products and trends that might rise to success.

Greg is joined by experts and entrepreneurs to discuss what is shaping today's everyday technology and what it may look like tomorrow, before the futurist Tom Cheesewright offers his predictions on what supermarkets might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

In this episode:

-David McIntosh - chief connected stores officer at Instacart which supplies smart trolleys to supermarkets that scan and weigh goods as they are dropped in and display a running basket total.

-Nick Carroll - principal strategist for retail at the research insights company Mintel where he helps the UK's biggest retailers understand what's coming next

-Anders Eriksson - chief executive of Swegreen which supplies the kit and support for supermarkets to grow their own fruit and vegetables inside their stores

Among the topics up for consideration: What more can be done to stop people from stealing at self-checkouts? Why are printed pricetags disappearing from supermarket shelves? Could smart shopping trolleys steer us to discounts? And might the supermarket of the future not just sell but also grow your produce?

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is an Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Could advances in AI help us have conversations with our pets? Will a raccoon or a robot become the pet of the future? Or will or pets be sharing a seat beside us on the plane as we jet off for our next holiday?

In this episode of Dough Greg Foot looks at pets and examines the rise of future wonder products.

He's joined by experts, entrepreneurs and industry innovators to discuss the trends we'e seeing today and where they may lead us tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

In this episode Greg hears how technology, food innovations and even changes in aviation might transform the future for our pets.

With him is the futurist Tracey Follows and guests including;

-Professor Daniel Mills: Professor of Veterinary Behavioural Medicine at Lincoln University -Dr Samantha Butler-Davies, MRCVS, veterinary director at Pets at Home and Vets for Pets. -Professor Clara Mancini: Professor of Animal-Computer Interaction and Head of the Animal-Computer Interaction Laboratory at the Open University

Produced by Linda Walker and presented by Greg Foot. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Is streaming really killing off the big screen? Greg Foot examines the future of cinemas and considers wonder products and trends that might rise to success.

Greg is joined by experts and entrepreneurs to discuss what is shaping today's everyday technology and what it may look like tomorrow, before the futurist Tom Cheesewright offers his predictions on what cinemas might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

In this episode:

- Tim Richards - the founder and CEO of Vue cinemas - Patrick von Sychowski - known in the trade as "the Cinema Guru" he's a writer and blogger who works for CinemaNext, the largest installer and upgrader of cinemas across Europe. - Alexis Scalice - Vice President for Business Development & Entertainment at Cosm which is pioneering 'shared reality' cinematic experiences in large entertainment domes

Among the questions up for consideration: Why are there more cinemas screenings of films from the past? Why are plastic popcorn buckets becoming collectors' items? And could the cinema of the future be a giant, panoramic dome?

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is an Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Could weight-loss jabs make gyms less relevant? Greg Foot examines the future of the fitness sector and considers wonder products and trends that might rise to success.

Greg is joined by experts and entrepreneurs to discuss what is shaping today's everyday technology and what it may look like tomorrow, before the futurist Tracey Follows offers her predictions on what gyms might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

In this episode:

Rebecca Passmore - chief operating officer of PureGym Cameron Saunders - chief executive of ukactive Varun Bhanot - co-founder and CEO of Magic AI

Among the questions for consideration: Why are gyms becoming more popular? What might the training equipment of tomorrow look like? Will AI-instructors replace personal trainers?

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is an Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Could cash be losing its crown as digital money gains ground?

Greg Foot looks at money and examines the rise of the wonder products and technologies emerging across the financial sector.

He's joined by experts, entrepreneurs and industry innovators to discuss the trends we're seeing today and where they may lead us tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

In this episode, Greg hears how digital wallets, AI, cryptocurrencies and central bank digital currencies could reshape the way we earn, spend and save, and asks whether the future of money will be more convenient, more inclusive, or come at the cost of privacy and control.

With him is the futurist Tom Cheesewright and guests including:

Jack Leslie and Rupal Patel – Bank of England economists and co-authors of Money: The Inside Story Frane Maroević – Director General of the International Currency Association (ICA) Diane Ayres – Vice President and Client Director at Visa, London

Produced by Linda Walker. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Is it OK to take experimental peptides like the Wolverine Stack?

These are what bodybuilders, longevity gurus, and online influencers are all talking about: experimental peptides. They're chemicals that you can buy online, in packages with names like the Wolverine Stack or the Glow Stack. The websites say "for research purposes only" but talk about their supposed benefits for wound healing and de-aging, and lots of people have been injecting them in a bid to heal faster and look younger.

Sliced Bread listener Steve is excited - and has even tried them for himself - but listener Sophie is worried. Both of them are asking whether there's any evidence behind the fantastic claims.

To find out the truth, Greg Foot is joined by Dr Andrew Steele, longevity scientist and Director of the Longevity Initiative.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: JULIA RAVEY, PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT

Pods, liquids and powders: which laundry detergent really cleans up?

A trip down the laundry aisle can leave you faced with a welter of confusing marketing claims. From stain-busting formulas and lower-temperature washes to eco-friendly promises, every detergent seems to offer cleaner clothes, lower energy use and a lighter environmental footprint.

Listener Rosanna came to Sliced Bread for help making sense of it all. She wants to know what really separates bio from non-bio detergents, whether pods, liquids and powders perform differently and if eco brands live up to their sustainability claims.

To get the answers, Greg is joined by Professor Steven Abbott, Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry and an expert in cleaning agents.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

What makes the perfect pillow?

Nothing saying ‘waking up on the wrong side of the bed’ like a crick in your neck. With up to 70% of us experiencing neck pain at some point in our lives, sleeping in a dodgy position can lead to days of discomfort. And pillows might be part of the problem...

Listener Angela has a frozen shoulder, and hoped a new pillow might provide a more comfortable night’s sleep. But with so many options to chose from, which one should she buy? One advertised for her preferred sleeping position? Soft or firm? And what about material: feathers, foam or fibre? She's asked Sliced Bread to help pick out the facts from the marketing fluff.

Physiotherapist Dr Chris McCarthy from Manchester School of Physiotherapy joins presenter Greg Foot to discuss the most important factors in selecting the perfect pillow, personalised to you - plus, how to save your sleep when faced with a floppy hotel pillow...

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: JULIA RAVEY, PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT

What's the best way to keep your home cool?

As heatwave after heatwave pushes temperatures higher across the UK and Europe, air conditioning has become a serious topic. Listener Rachel is one of many people who have turned to a portable air conditioner for relief. About the size of a dehumidifier, these units cool a room by drawing in warm air, chilling it, and venting the excess heat outside through a hose, usually attached to a window.

But with hotter summers forecast, Rachel is wondering whether it's worth investing in a fixed, or "split", air conditioning system instead. These systems use an indoor unit paired with an outdoor condenser and are increasingly common in homes across Europe. She wants to know: how much do they cost to buy and run? Are they difficult to install? And how noisy are they in everyday use?

Then there are the cheaper "air coolers" that claim to lower temperatures by blowing air over cold water or ice. Do they genuinely cool a room, or are they simply fans with clever marketing?

To find out, presenter Greg Foot is joined by Rachel and Professor Richard Fitton, Technical Director of the Energy House 2.0 test facility at the University of Salford.

All of our episodes start with your suggestions. If you've spotted an advert, trend or wonder product that claims to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or send us a voice note on WhatsApp: 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Can you really learn a new language from apps like Duolingo? Sliced Bread listener Nathan Phelps has been teaching himself Japanese. He’s tried textbooks, tutors, and crucially, language apps on his phone - and he came to us because he’s seen these apps claiming to be “backed by science” to help you “learn a new language, fast”. More recently he’s even seen apps boast about “AI powered features” to help you practice your language skills, available on premium subscriptions.

Nathan wants to know: are language apps an effective way to learn? How do they compare to other ways of learning? And can AI really supercharge your language skills? To find out more, presenter Greg Foot is joined by Professor Elizabeth Wonnacott, Professor of Language Science at the University of Oxford and Director of the Language Learning Lab in their Department of Education. All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807. RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT

Which is the most hygienic for cleaning your kitchen?

Most of us will be familiar with the cheap packs of coloured kitchen sponges with the abrasive tops, used for washing dishes and wiping surfaces. But could they be harbouring a host of bacterial baddies?

Listener Caroline wants to know as she uses them regularly and even goes as far as running them through the washing machine to keep them cleaner for longer! Does that really work? And are there concerns about these sponges releasing microplastics? Would alternatives like cloths or brushes be a better option?

To answer all of these questions, presenter Greg Foot is joined by Markus Egert, Professor of Microbiology and Hygiene at Furtwangen University in southwest Germany and one of the authors of a major study into the hygiene of sponges; and Vilde Snekkevik, research scientist at the Norwegian Institute for Water Research in Oslo.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Can robotic lawnmowers save you time without hassling hedgehogs?

Listener Pat has seen adverts for robotic lawnmowers and has lots of questions: Do they cut effectively? How do they manage with edges and flower borders? And what about avoiding wildlife and other objects in the garden?

To find out, presenter Greg Foot is joined by BBC Gardeners' World magazine's tech reviewer Harry Duncton, alongside Dr Sophie Lund-Rasmussen (aka 'Dr Hedgehog'), who has carried out research into the dangers to hedgehogs posed by robotic lawnmowers.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Can a test tell you what's living inside your gut - and what to do about it?

That's what listener Pete Mace asked us, kicking off a brand new series of Sliced Bread! He's seen 'gut microbiome tests' advertised by ZOE, Randox Health and others. They promise to tell you about the bacteria - and other bugs - currently making your intestines their home. Many also claim they'll use this information to make personalised diet recommendations, showing you exactly what you should and shouldn't eat to nurture the right bugs and improve your health. Pete wants to know: what can these tests really tell you? And can they really provide a diet tailored precisely to your personal wellbeing? To find out more, presenter Greg Foot is joined by Dr Nick Ilott, Senior Researcher and lead Bioinformatician at the Oxford Centre for Microbiome Studies; and Dr Fred Warren, group leader at the Quadram Institute who researches how gut microbes interact with food. All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807. RESEARCHER: JULIA RAVEY PRODUCERS: PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT

Is it ok to store food in plastic containers?

That's the question put by listener Joe Tattersall in this, the last episode in the current series of 'Sliced Bread'. Joe's noticed scuffs and abrasions on his reusable plastic containers and is concerned about whether that increases the risk of 'chemical leaching' into his food, or ingesting microplastics. He's keen to know if alternatives like glass, silicon, or metal containers could better for our health, as well as for the planet.

And what about putting them in the microwave to heat food, using them to freeze food after batch-cooking, or putting them in the dishwasher to clean?

To find out more, presenter Greg Foot is joined by Dr Stephanie Wright, Senior Lecturer in Environmental Toxicology at Imperial College London; and Jane Muncke, Managing Director and Chief Scientific Officer at the Food Packaging Forum.

We're taking a break to prepare another batch of Sliced Bread but we're as hungry as ever for your suggestions of wonder products to investigate. Please do send your ideas to us either on email to sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

What kind of cat litter is best for cats, owners and the environment?

After we looked at dog poo bags for an episode, it's only right that we answer some questions for the cat lovers, around cat litter. 

Listener Ella got in touch to ask about it, after adopting her Sphynx indoor cat, Mr. Big (short for Mr. Bigglesworth). She wanted to know: what is the most absorbent cat litter that doesn't smell, doesn't cause problems for her floors when kicked out of the litter tray and might be better for the environment?

Greg Foot is joined by veterinary surgeon and author of the book What's My Cat Thinking? Dr. Jo Lewis – as well as engineer and former managing director of pet care company Bob Martin, Savi Madden – to get the inside scoop. 

All of our episodes start with your suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

Researcher: Phil Sansom Producers: Kate Holdsworth and Greg Foot

Do ergonomic devices like split keyboards and vertical mice help with comfort and health?

If you're a heavy computer user there are an increasing variety of weird and wonderful options to help improve your comfort and reduce the risk of aches and pains associated with 'Repetitive Strain Injury' (RSI).

Listener Tim is curious whether ergonomic tools—such as split keyboards, alternative layouts, or vertical mice—could optimise his professional setup as a software engineer.

To find out, presenter Greg Foot does a deep-dive into the evidence alongside Nichola Adams, from the Chartered Institute of Ergonomics and Human Factors; and Ben Vallack, who runs a YouTube channel all about workflow and design.

And if you're interested in this topic, we have a companion episode on Standing Desks - available along with all our other episodes on BBC Sounds.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Can Vibration Plates help with fitness, bone density, and even lymphatic drainage?

They've been around for a while but vibration plates seem to be having another 'moment'. Originally touted as a piece of fitness kit for the gym or home, the latest ads on social media seem to be promoting claims around benefits to bone density and lymphatic drainage.

Listeners Natasha and Steve got in touch wanting to know whether all this could really be true of a single wonder product! To find out, presenter Greg Foot is joined by Dr Claire Minshull, a sports rehabilitation expert, and Professor Neil Mansfield, author of the book 'Human Response to Vibration'.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Can Intense Pulsed Light devices really "zap" away your unwanted hair? 

You may have seen IPL devices advertised on social media - that promise painless hair removal using light to "zap" away body hair.

Listener Karen got in touch to ask if these "Zappers" could possibly free her from having to shave her legs in the summer? How are they supposed to work, are they safe to use, and is it worth the investing in one?

To find out, Greg Foot is joined by Dr Gill Westgate, a skin and hair biologist and honorary visiting lecturer at the University of Bradford. 

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM

PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT

Are infrared saunas as effective as traditional ones?

If you've ever sat sweating on a wooden bench in a traditional ('Finnish') sauna wondering if there was an easier way, could infrared be the answer? Infrared saunas work at lower temperatures, ostensibly making it easier to stay in there for longer. Listener Paul got in touch after trying one and wants to know if infrared saunas give you the same purported benefits as traditional ones.

Those claims include: improved cardiovascular health, weight loss, longevity and even benefits to mental health and depression. But what's the evidence and does it amount to a load of hot air?

To get the answers, Greg Foot is joined by Professor Chris Minson, an expert in the effects of heat on the body who's carried out research on infrared saunas.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Almost everyone is guilty of fiddling with their ears, especially if they can feel a build-up of earwax in there. But what actually works to get rid of it, and should we be messing with them in the first place?

Listener Martin got in touch after finding out his earwax build-up was returning - and wanted to know if drops alone would solve his problem, or if he needed to seek professional help to remove it?

Greg Foot speaks to professor of Audiology at Manchester University, NIHR senior Investigator and former chairman of the British Society of Audiology, Kevin Munro - to find out. 

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM

PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH & GREG FOOT

What's the latest on collagen?

The new series of Sliced Bread kicks off with an update on one of the wonder products most-requested by listeners. Presenter Greg Foot first looked at collagen in 2022 and returns to the subject to find out what has changed in the scientific landscape since then. Could there be new evidence that it really can do what the manufacturers claim: rejuvenate skin, nails and hair - and even help with joint and bone health?

To find out, Greg is rejoined by the expert from that original episode four years ago, dermatologist Dr Emma Wedgeworth, alongside Professor Jayne Tierney from University College London who specialises in reviewing evidence.

Together they do a deep-dive on the latest science, including a new study from one of the brands featured in 2022, Absolute Collagen. Does it stand up to scrutiny?

If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

Researcher: Phil Sansom Producers: Phil Sansom and Greg Foot

What will the food of the future look like? Greg Foot finds out.

Greg Foot, host of BBC Radio 4’s Sliced Bread, returns with Dough — the series exploring the rise of future wonder products that could transform the way we live.

Each episode examines the emerging technologies and innovations poised to shape tomorrow’s world. Greg speaks with experts and entrepreneurs to uncover the trends influencing how today’s everyday essentials might evolve, before a leading futurist offers their predictions for life five, ten and fifty years from now.

This episode explores how our food choices could change as the climate becomes hotter and more volatile. Are we heading towards a menu built around ancient grains, 3D‑printed dishes and AI‑tailored nutrition plans? And where does lab‑grown meat sit — both in terms of public appetite and the rules needed to get it on our plates?

Alongside Greg, tucking in to a taste of the future, is futurist Tom Cheesewright, joined by expert guests including:

- Karina Zimerfeld, the Global Vice President of Research & Development at Mars Food & Nutrition - Charles Banks, Partner & Managing Director of global trends agency The Food People - Owen Ensor, Chief Executive of Meatly

This episode was produced by Linda Walker

Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds

Could smart glasses with built-in video cameras become widely accepted?

Greg Foot, host of BBC Radio 4's 'Sliced Bread' brings you 'Dough', examining the rise of future wonder products.

Greg is joined by experts, entrepreneurs and industry innovators to discuss the trends we're seeing today and where they may lead us tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

This time we’re looking at the future of eyewear - asking whether smart glasses with built-in video cameras might see past previous failures to become widely accepted?

And whether you might soon be wearing smart contact lenses that can not only display websites and messages, but also potentially monitor your eye health?

Greg is joined by the futurist Tracey Follows and guests including:

- Priya Morjaria, Assistant Professor in International Eye Health at the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and Head of Global Programme Development at Peek Vision

- Alex Himel, Vice President of Wearables at Meta which is selling smart glasses with embedded artificial intelligence, cameras, microphones and speakers.

- Professor Philip Morgan, Head of Optometry at the University of Manchester

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds

What will the office be like in future?

Greg Foot, host of BBC Radio 4's 'Sliced Bread' brings you 'Dough', examining the rise of future wonder products.

Greg is joined by experts, entrepreneurs and industry innovators to discuss the trends we're seeing today and where they may lead us tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

This time we’re looking at the future of the office - asking whether in years to come, we’ll even need one?

If so, is the ‘conference room’ soon to be a thing of the past, replaced with cafes, comfy chairs, and table tennis tables?

And will our future HQs be home to service robots and AI receptionists?

Greg learns how the Covid-19 pandemic changed office working and the trends transforming the look of high-end office developments. He is joined by the futurist Tom Cheesewright and guests including:

- Professor Matt Davis, University of Leeds - Jane Clay, Strategy Leader and Principal at Gensler which designs and refurbishes buildings around the world - Mike Dalloz, Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of The Meeting Pod Company.

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Could ticketless travel and satellite connectivity be coming to our rail network?

Greg Foot examines the rise of future wonder products.

He's joined by experts, entrepreneurs and industry innovators to discuss the trends we're seeing today and where they may lead us tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

In this episode Greg hears how renationalisation, digital signalling, satellite connections, ticketless technology and battery power might transform our trains in the future.

With him is the futurist Tom Cheesewright and guests including:

- Dickon Ross, Editor of Rail Magazine - Maggie Simpson OBE, Director General at the Rail Freight Group - Mike Butler, Director of Rail & Innovation at Clarus Networks

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

What will mobile phones be like in future? Greg Foot investigates

Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show 'Sliced Bread', brings you 'Dough'.

Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.

Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

This time we’re looking at the future of mobile phones - asking whether our handsets will shrink, stretch, roll, fold… or even disappear as new technology takes over? And will super-smart devices with AI assistants that second-guess our every move become the new normal?

Alongside Greg is the futurist, Tracey Follows, and expert guests: leading strategist in the tech industry, Chetan Sharma, innovator and creator from one of the world’s newest Mobile Phone manufacturers, “Nothing Mobile", their AI and design lead, Sélim Benayat and co-founder and CEO of Honest Mobile, Andy Aitken.

This episode was produced by Linda Walker

Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds

Sleep deprived parents everywhere are tempted to reach for anything that might help them get a little more sleep overnight – but can products promising to encourage babies to snooze for longer – really do that? And is there any science to back it up?

That is exactly what tired Dad-of-three Dave wanted to know – and whether there were any future implications from using these gadgets, docks, blinds and sleep bags?

New Dad Greg Foot speaks to Director of the Durham Infancy and Sleep Centre Professor Helen Ball, to find out.

You can also read the official Safer Sleep guidance, by copy and pasting the links below into your browser:

NHS - https://www.nhs.uk/best-start-in-life/baby/baby-basics/newborn-and-baby-sleeping-advice-for-parents/safe-sleep-advice-for-babies/

Lullaby Trust - https://www.lullabytrust.org.uk/baby-safety/safer-sleep-information/safer-sleep-overview/

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM

PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH & GREG FOOT

Which knife is best for the kitchen and how do you keep it sharp?

After buying various knives over the years that ended up blunt, listener Susan is looking for one that will last. She's seen an array of different types and materials: Damascus steel, Japanese Gyuto knives, as well as alloys and additions that promise a sharper edge. They vary hugely in price - anything from £50 to £1,000. And if you do invest, how do you keep a knife sharp?

To cut through the marketing BS, presenter Greg Foot is joined in the studio by Mark Miodownik, Professor of Materials & Society at University College London, and Rob Haslam aka Mr Knife Guy.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Do you really need a VPN?

Listener Andrew has seen and heard lots of adverts for Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) and wants to know if they'll beef up the security on his computer. Will they provide extra protection from malware or hackers?

To get the answers, presenter Greg Foot is joined in the studio by Professor Victoria Baines, fellow of the Chartered Institute for IT.

All our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you have seen a wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, please do email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or send a voicenote to our Whatsapp number - 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Listener Amanda was Kefir curious, and got in touch with Sliced Bread to ask if the Kefir she was consuming for breakfast every day – was really having an impact on her health, cognitive function, and her gut?

She wasn’t the only person to get in touch about kefir either, with others saying they keep seeing the benefits of fermented foods crowed about on social media. Greg Foot talks to head of the Food Biosciences department at the Irish National Research Body Teagasc, to get to the bottom of it.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH & GREG FOOT

Can taking testosterone help with low libido and energy?

It's all over social media and is often touted by celebs - both male and female - but is testosterone replacement therapy the answer to listener Clive's low energy levels?

Clive got in touch after sending off for a blood test with an online health firm which showed he might have low testosterone and could be a candidate for therapy. But to buy it privately isn't cheap and once started, is a lifelong commitment. So is it worth the money?

Presenter Greg Foot is joined by President of the British Society of Sexual Medicine, Mike Kirby, as well as NHS GP and Director of Men's Health at Manual, Dr Jeff Foster.

If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Listener Jenny, who enjoys a 90% cocoa bar from time to time, got in touch to ask if some of the reports that dark chocolate can have a positive effect on things like circulation and mood - have any truth behind them? 

But Jenny also told Sliced Bread that since she read reports that heavy metals such as lead and cadmium could be in dark chocolate - she's been unable to enjoy her regular bar, until she knows it's safe to eat!

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them? If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM  PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH & GREG FOOT

Is it ok to stay on weight loss injections?

They have been nothing short of a pharmaceutical phenomenon. But for people like listener Lynn who've had huge success on weight loss drugs like Mounjaro, the question now arises about the implications of using them long-term. Could there be a 'maintenance' dose that would potentially allow for use over many years, or even a lifetime? And as scientists study the data, are other benefits emerging that go beyond just losing weight that could burnish their wonder-product reputation?

Presenter Greg Foot is joined in the studio by Lynn to hear her story and do a deep-dive into the science alongside Professor of Molecular Neuroendocrinology at the University of Cambridge, Giles Yeo.

At Sliced Bread we're hungry for your suggestions so we can keep making fresh batches! If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

The team has gone through 30 episodes over the past year, and carved out five potential present worthy products that may well be heading down a chimney to you this Christmas. (We wanted to give you plenty of time to include them in your letters to Santa.)

Greg Foot will share with you the key points from experts we’ve spoken to on Nail Polish & Gel Nails, Chopping Boards, Lip Balm, Smart Scales, and Sleep headbands. (The information in this episode was correct at the time of recording.)

And as always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH

Are cough medicines any better than just taking honey and lemon?

When Listener Sally sent in a croaky voicenote to our Sliced Bread Whatsapp number (07543 306807 - put us in your contacts!) we knew we had to tackle this one.

Sally didn't think the medicine she used for her cough did very much, so she joined presenter Greg Foot and Jacky Smith, Professor in Respiratory Medicine at the University of Manchester, to get some answers.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Are special shampoos and coatings any good at cleaning and protecting your car?

They're all over Instagram: washes, foams, and ceramic coatings in a rainbow of coloured bottles that promise to give your car that showroom shine. For listener James - a driving instructor - the question is whether they're worth the money, or if an ordinary bottle of washing up liquid will do the job. To find out Greg is joined in the Salford studio by materials scientist and vehicle coatings researcher at the University of Manchester, Dr Beatriz Mingo, as well car expert and TV presenter Tim Shaw. Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them? At Sliced Bread, we're hungry for your suggestions so we can keep making fresh batches! If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807. RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT

Listener Julie has been reaching for the fake tan every spring to add a "bit of colour" to her legs, but after much trial and error with foams, lotions and gels, she got in touch with Sliced Bread to ask what is actually IN fake tan? How does it work - and is there a particular kind that might suit her best?

Greg Foot is joined by Consultant Dermatologist and Senior Lecturer at the University of Manchester Dr Jean Ayer, as well as Cosmetic Scientist and Science Communicator who runs the blog LabMuffin Dr Michelle Wong, to find out. 

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

At Sliced Bread, we're hungry for your suggestions so we can keep making fresh batches! If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT

Can anything stop toenail fungus in its tracks?

It's one of the most-requested but least-talked-about topics, so listener Julia speaks for many as she joins us to ask about treatments for toenail fungus. She's keen to know if the laser-light devices shes's seen on social media really do work, as well as over-the-counter lacquers and prescription drugs.

To get the answers Greg and Julia are joined in the Salford studio by Dr Ivan Bristow, who's on the British Association of Dermatologists' Foot Fungus Task Force.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

At Sliced Bread, we're hungry for your suggestions so we can keep making fresh batches! If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Greg Foot speaks to Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon Dr Emma Craythorne - who has plenty of skin in the game - to find some answers for listener Phil about about scars, how they occur, the different types, and what might help make them less obvious. 

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

At Sliced Bread, we're hungry for your suggestions so we can keep making fresh batches! If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT

Can creatine boost your body and mind?

Listener Simon has been taking the fitness supplement creatine and wants to know if the science backs up the claim that it can make you stronger and faster. He's also heard that it can help with cognitive function. To find out if creatine can boost body and mind, presenter Greg Foot is joined by Graeme Close, Professor of Physiology at Liverpool John Moores University and Fabienne Sandkuhler, postdoctoral researcher at LMU Munich.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Can supersonic air travel make a comeback?

Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show 'Sliced Bread', now brings you 'Dough'.

Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.

Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

This episode examines the future of flight.

How could new, supersonic flights not cost the earth? Will your future taxi be a flying one without a pilot? Could a new shape for aeroplanes make them more spacious and efficient?

Alongside Greg is the futurist, Tom Cheesewright, and expert guests Mariya Tarabanovska, an aerospace engineer and the founder of Flight Crowd, a non-profit educational organisation focused on electric aviation and Simon Davies, chief test pilot at Vertical Aerospace, a British aerospace technology company.

This episode was produced by Jay Unger.

Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds

Could 'smart' clothing monitor our health?

Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show 'Sliced Bread', now brings you 'Dough'.

Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.

Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

This episode examines the future of our clothing.

How can manufacturers dye clothes without using water? Could 'smart' fabrics monitor weather conditions and provide extra warmth or cooling when we need it? Will our body movements, instead of bulky batteries, provide the power for clothing to monitor our health? Will synthetic material be completely replaced by natural fibres and those made from waste products?

Greg is joined by the futurist, Tracey Follows, and expert guests Dr Marie O'Mahony, programme leader for E-textiles and Wearable Technologies at the Winchester School of Art at the University of Southampton and Jenny Prendergast, Programme Leader for Fashion and Design Technology at Loughborough University.

This episode was produced by Jay Unger.

Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds

Could your future home be built by a robot bricklayer?

Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show 'Sliced Bread', now brings you 'Dough'.

Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.

Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

This episode examines the future of UK housebuilding.

Will new homes be cheaper to run and built to a higher standard? What potential do robots have to build quality homes quickly and cheaply? Could building homes with bricks become a thing of the past? Might 3D printing homes with concrete be a realistic alternative? And will factories play a bigger part in meeting the demand for new housing?

Alongside Greg is the futurist Tom Cheesewright and expert guests including Prof. Richard Fitton, Professor of Building Performance at the University of Salford and Salar al Khafaji, the CEO and founder of Monumental which builds autonomous on-site construction robots.

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Will delivery drones and robots make popping to the shops a thing of the past?

Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show 'Sliced Bread', now brings you 'Dough'.

Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.

Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

This episode looks at the future of home parcel delivery.

One of the UK's biggest parcel delivery companies, Evri, explains why its trial of a robot delivery 'dog' will not spell the end for human couriers.

A service already delivering coffee and groceries by drone in part of Dublin outlines its plans to take off in the UK.

And Greg hears how looking to the past may improve home deliveries in future by making more of our inland waterways and rail network.

Alongside Greg, delivering her expertise, is the futurist Tracey Follows and expert guests including:

-Craig Noonan, UK Director of Communications and Brand at Evri -Alan Hicks, Chief Technology Officer at Manna Drone Delivery -Michelle Gardner, Deputy Director of Policy at the trade association, Logistics UK

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Will your car be driving you by 2050?

Greg Foot, host of the BBC Radio 4 show Sliced Bread, now brings you Dough.

Each episode explores future wonder products that might rise to success and redefine our lives.

Experts and entrepreneurs discuss the trends shaping what today's everyday technology may look like tomorrow, before a leading futurist offers their predictions on what life might be like within five, ten and fifty years.

The series kicks off with a look at the future of cars.

Will new battery technology transform the range and price of electric cars? Why are fully autonomous vehicles still not yet allowed on the UK's public roads? Which self-driving vehicles are we most likely to see first? Will we really let our cars do the driving for us anyway? Could vehicles communicating with streetlights make journeys quicker for select motorists?

Alongside Greg in the passenger seat is the futurist Tom Cheesewright and expert guests including:

-Phil Blythe CBE - a former Chief Scientific Adviser to the UK's Department for Transport and Professor of Intelligent Transport Systems at Newcastle University -Paul Shearing - Director of the Zero Institute at Oxford University and the Royal Academy of Engineering Chair in Emerging Battery Technologies -Paul Newman - Co-founder and Chief Technology Officer at Oxa, a UK-based company developing software for self-driving vehicles

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North Production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Is it worth getting a Smart Doorbell?

Greg Foot pushes all the right buttons as he gathers consumer and crime experts to get answers for listener Derek, who's keen to learn more about the various features, prices and security elements in the growing market of smart doorbells.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

This episode is the last in the current series of Sliced Bread, but we're hungry for your suggestions so we can prepare another batch! If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Is expensive salt better for your health?

Greg Foot gathers the experts, dives into the data and crunches the numbers to get the answers for listener Sally.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Greg Foot gathers the experts, and "chips" away at the science for listener Helen.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH & GREG FOOT

Greg Foot gathers the experts, to find out which claims "stand up" to scrutiny for listener Bede.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT

Can dehumidifiers dry out your house - and your clothes?

Greg Foot gathers the experts, dives into the data and crunches the numbers to get answers for listener Rhys.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Which chopping board material is best for hygiene and the planet?

Greg Foot gathers the experts, dives into the data and crunches the numbers to get answers for listener Simon.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: PHIL SANSOM AND GREG FOOT

Can jug or under sink filters, promising to soften tap water and improve taste, really take out what they claim?

Greg Foot gathers the experts live at Cheltenham Science Festival, dives into the data and crunches the numbers to get answers for listener Elaine.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT

Is more expensive dog food worth it?

Greg Foot gathers the experts, dives into the data and crunches the numbers to get answers for listeners Izzy and Pete.

Each episode Greg investigates the latest ad-hyped products and trending fads promising to make us healthier, happier and greener. Are they really 'the best thing since sliced bread' and should you spend your money on them?

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

Can supplements claiming to make menopause symptoms more bearable, really help?

Going through menopause can result in a myriad of symptoms, leaving women stressed, exhausted, and desperate for anything that might make it easier to deal with.

In recent years, a huge range of products have become available in supermarkets, pharmacies and online, all promising to help alleviate some of these symptoms – for a price. So listener Susie, who said she felt she was experiencing some of these symptoms, got in touch with Sliced Bread, to ask if it might be money well spent?

Greg Foot drills down into the top ingredients of these supplements and their claims, alongside GP Dr Helen Wall who runs a Menopause Clinic in Greater Manchester. They look at what the science says, and ask if these supplements really can support women through the menopause?

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH, PHIL SANSOM & GREG FOOT

Do Vagus Nerve Stimulators help your mental health?

The vagus nerve could be one of the most important body parts you might never have heard of. It's a large nerve that connects major organs like the heart and lungs to the brain and studies have found that stimulating it with electrical pulses can lead to dramatic improvements in some people with depression and other mental health conditions. Those trials were for medical devices implanted into the chest, but listener Karin has seen commercially available versions that you wear over your ear.

But do they work? Karin joins Greg in the studio along with leading experts in the field to do a deep-dive into the studies and separate out the science fact from the marketing fiction.

All of our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

When staring at shelves full of sticks, tubs and tubes all promising us the perfect pout, how do you know which Lip Balms will really help keep chapped lips at bay?

Listener Kiran is a regular lip balm applier - saying she often suffers with dry or cracked lips, and recently splashed out on an expensive lip balm after seeing celebrity endorsed adverts for it online. But she isn’t sure it’s any better than her trusty tub of Vaseline.

To find out, Greg Foot speaks to Consultant Dermatologist and Dermatological Surgeon Dr Emma Craythorne about lips, lip lickers, mouth breathers and the causes of cracking - as well as lecturer in pharmaceutical and medicinal chemistry at the University of Sunderland, Dr Teresa Borrello about what is IN these lip balms to plump, smooth, or repair.

All our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM

Which products are best for bedtime listening?

According to a YouGov poll nearly half of us listen to music or podcasts to help us get to sleep and there are a range of products designed to do just that.

Listener Nick has seen wearable sleep headbands with speakers woven in to the fabric which he hopes will stop him waking up in the middle of the night with headphones or earbuds digging into his ears.

And listener David says his social media is promoting sleep bars that go under the pillow and claim to transmit sound via bone conduction.

To find out more, Greg is joined by acoustic expert Professor Trevor Cox and Lecturer at the Surrey Sleep Research Centre, Ullrich Bartsch. They discuss the sound quality of these devices and whether it's a good idea to listen to music or podcasts at bedtime at all. Is there any evidence that it results in a good night's sleep?

All our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807

PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM

You may have heard health warnings around too much red or processed meat, and considered trying a plant based meat alternative as one of your midweek meals instead. But after looking at the ingredients on the packet and spotting salt, additives and flavourings, wondered if they really are the healthier choice?

That’s exactly what listener Graham did, as he hunted for an alternative to his beloved sausage – and found that the plant based versions all seemed to be heavily processed. He's asking, are they really better for us? And are they better for the environment too?

The information and prices in this episode were correct at the time of recording.

All our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807

PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT

RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM

Are there products that can help you avoid or ease jet lag?

If you've travelled long-haul you'll know the feeling; your body feels completely out of sync with the new time zone, leaving you tired, disorientated and quite possibly a tad irritated!

So is there anything you can do? Listener Moira suffered the effects of jet lag on a recent work trip to India and with another one coming up to the USA, she's keen to know more about the products that claim to help. She's heard about apps that help you align your circadian rhythm with your new time zone, as well as supplements and even a mask that promises to better humidify the air on your flight! But do any of them work?

All our episodes start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807

PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM NOTES: The table on light exposure referred to in this programme from the scientific journal 'The Lancet' can be found here:

https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/Jet-lag%3A-trends-and-coping-strategies-Waterhouse-Reilly/d2ca570b8746a1ecfbd155da14c8291f85545db2/figure/3

Artificial sweeteners appeal to anyone with a sweet tooth looking to cut down on their sugar intake. They’re not only for use in our cups of tea or coffee, but they’re also in fizzy drinks, low calorie products, sweets and baked goods. But are they really a better alternative?

Greg is joined by a leading scientist from the World Health Organisation, as well as a Professor of Gastroenterology who has researched the impact of sweeteners to “spill the tea” on this topic. Can using them as an alternative help us reduce our blood sugar? Are all kinds of sweetener safe? And what about their effects on us long term?

The information in this episode was correct at the time of recording.

As ever we’re looking for YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen and advert, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice not to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRODUCERS: KATE HOLDSWORTH AND GREG FOOT RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM

Can home tests tell you if you have an allergy or a food intolerance?

We're back with a new batch of investigations and kicking off this series is one of our most popular requests: home allergy tests. The companies that make them claim they can help you work out if you have an allergy or intolerance to certain foods. The idea is the information can help you decide what to eliminate from your diet. But do they work?

Greg is joined by consultant allergist Professor Adam Fox to do a deep-dive and separate out the science fact from the marketing fiction.

As ever this series we're looking for YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807

PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND GREG FOOT RESEARCHER: PHIL SANSOM

What is keeping the traditional watch industry ticking over?

The entrepreneur, Sam White, hosts Dough - the BBC Radio 4 series which looks at the business behind profitable everyday products and where the smart money might take them next.

In each episode, Sam, and the futurist, Tom Cheesewright, are joined by product manufacturers and industry experts whose inside knowledge gives a new appreciation for the everyday things that we often take for granted.

Together they look back on a product’s earliest (sometimes ridiculous!) iterations, discuss how a product has evolved and the trends which have driven its profitability.

In this episode on traditional watches, they hear from expert guests including:

-Mike France - a co-founder of the British watchmaking company, Christoper Ward -Fflur Roberts - Head of Luxury Goods at the data analytics company, Euromonitor International -Laura McCreddie-Doak - a freelance watch journalist who has written for publications including Wired, GQ & The Times

They trade opinions on traditional watches 'game-changing' innovations and their most pointless, or least effective, ones too, before Tom draws on his expertise as a futurist to imagine what the wristwatch might be like in the decades to come.

Dough is produced by Jon Douglas and is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in the spring when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Could the next generation of lawn mowers create any image you like on your lawn?

The entrepreneur, Sam White, hosts Dough - the BBC Radio 4 series which looks at the business behind profitable everyday products and where the smart money might take them next.

In each episode, Sam, and the futurist, Tom Cheesewright, are joined by product manufacturers and industry experts whose inside knowledge gives a new appreciation for the everyday things that we often take for granted.

Together they look back on a product’s earliest (sometimes ridiculous!) iterations, discuss how a product has evolved and the trends which have driven its profitability.

In this episode on lawn mowers, they hear from expert guests including:

-Yvette Henshall-Bell - President of the European Business Unit at the lawn mower manufacturer, Husqvarna -Craig Hoare - Sales and Marketing Manager for the lawn mower manufacturers Hayter and its parent company Toro -Nick Darking - General Manager of the British Agricultural and Garden Machinery Association

They trade opinions on the lawn mower's 'game-changing' innovations and its most pointless, or least effective, ones too, before Tom draws on his expertise as a futurist to imagine what cutting the grass might be like in the decades to come.

Dough is produced by Jon Douglas and is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in the spring when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

How can the bicycle industry recover from sales that plummeted after the pandemic?

The entrepreneur, Sam White, hosts Dough - the BBC Radio 4 series which looks at the business behind profitable everyday products and where the smart money might take them next.

In each episode, Sam, and the futurist, Tom Cheesewright, are joined by product manufacturers and industry experts whose inside knowledge gives a new appreciation for the everyday things that we often take for granted.

Together they look back on a product’s earliest (sometimes ridiculous!) iterations, discuss how a product has evolved and the trends which have driven its profitability.

In this episode on bicycles Sam and Tom hear from expert guests including:

- Nikki Hawyes - the chief executive officer of Whyte Bikes - Andy Smallwood - the chief executive officer at Pashley Cycles - Simon Irons - the Data and Insights Director at the Bicycle Association

They explain how the boom in sales during the Covid-19 pandemic bottomed out, creating huge turmoil from which the industry is still trying to recover.

They trade opinions on the bicycle's 'game-changing' innovations and come up with some classic suggestions for 'pointless' innovations too, before Tom draws on his expertise as a futurist to imagine what bicycles could be like in the decades to come.

Dough is produced by Jon Douglas and is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in the spring when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Could washing machines soon be cleaning our clothes without using any water?

The entrepreneur, Sam White, hosts Dough - the BBC Radio 4 series which looks at the business behind profitable everyday products and where the smart money might take them next.

In each episode, Sam, and the futurist, Tom Cheesewright, are joined by product manufacturers and industry experts whose inside knowledge gives a new appreciation for the everyday things that we often take for granted.

Together they look back on a product’s earliest (sometimes ridiculous!) iterations, discuss how a product has evolved and the trends which have driven its profitability.

In this episode on washing machines, they hear from expert guests including:

- Teresa Arbuckle - Regional Managing Director for the UK and Ireland at the washing machine manufacturer, Beko Europe - John Elliott MBE - the founder and chairman of Ebac which make washing machines in County Durham - Paul Hide - chief executive of the Association of Manufacturers of Domestic Appliances

They trade opinions on the washing machine's 'game-changing' innovations and its most pointless, or least effective, ones too, before Tom draws on his expertise as a futurist to imagine what doing the laundry might be like in the decades to come.

Dough is produced by Jon Douglas and is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in the spring when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Game consoles have come a long way since the 1970s but could their days now be numbered?

The entrepreneur, Sam White, returns with a new series of Dough - the BBC Radio 4 show which looks at the business behind profitable everyday products and where the smart money might take them next.

In each episode, Sam, and the futurist, Tom Cheesewright, are joined by product manufacturers and industry experts whose inside knowledge gives a new appreciation for the everyday things that we often take for granted.

Together they look back on a product’s earliest (sometimes ridiculous!) iterations, discuss how a product has evolved and the trends which have driven its profitability.

In this episode on video game consoles, the pair hear from expert guests including:

Seamus Blackley - the original creator of Microsoft's Xbox

Keza MacDonald - video games editor at the Guardian

James McWhirter - a senior analyst specialising in video games for the research firm, Omdia.

They trade opinions on the game console's 'game-changing' innovations and its most pointless, or least effective, ones too, before Tom steps in, drawing on his expertise as a futurist, to imagine where consoles might end up in the decades to come.

Dough is produced by Jon Douglas and is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in the spring when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Listener Angela is a musician, and long-time wearer of Hearing Aids – but as her parents and friends have started reaching an age where they might need them, she’s wondering what advice to give them - and whether paying more for a hearing aid, and potentially going private – would really help?

There’s no question – Hearing Aids are Sliced Bread – but can the top end products really deliver on claims they can improve sound, reduce background noise, stream directly from phones or tables, and change what they listen to automatically? And are hearing aids available on the NHS capable of the same?

The NHS England wait times described in this episode were accurate at the time of recording, and may have changed.

A transcript of this episode is available here: https://downloads.bbc.co.uk/radio4/misc/sliced_bread_hearing_aids_transcript.pdf

As always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT

PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH

Edinburgh gardener Alan got in touch with Sliced Bread, to ask if he really needs to be spending money on buying and applying plant food or fish, blood and bone meal to his roses and woody perennials?

He was keen to know what is in these commercial plant foods that come as a solid, liquid or granule, how often he is supposed to use them, whether they make as much of a difference as they claim, and if he can save money by making his own “mulch” out of fallen leaves?

Greg Foot investigates with the help of Gardener’s Question Time’s expert and botanist, Pippa Greenwood – as well as Head of Fertilisers from the Agricultural Industries Confederation Jo Gilbertson. They “dig in” to the claims on the packets, and try to determine if pricey plant foods are the best thing since Sliced Bread?

We are looking for more of YOUR suggestions of products to investigate. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT

PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH

Do Boiling Water Taps save you money?

They're often seen in offices but boiling water taps are increasingly popular for the home kitchen too. They hold hot water at a constant temperature in a tank under your sink and claim to save you money compared to boiling a regular kettle. But does the evidence back up the marketing hype?

Listener Jenny got in touch with Sliced Bread because she's upgrading her kitchen and is thinking about investing in a boiling water tap. She's keen to know how the figures for daily use stack up - and if there IS a saving how long it would take before she gets her money back on the original outlay. And then there's maintenance too...

Greg is joined in the studio by Jenny and energy expert Mark Thompson to crunch the numbers, along with Debbie Birkbeck from Stopcocks Women Plumbers.

We are looking for more of YOUR suggestions of products to investigate. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT

PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND PHIL SANSOM

Grounding Sheets - do they really work?

It's perhaps the most-requested product in Sliced Bread history but is there any real science behind grounding (or 'earthing') sheets? The claims made for them are wide and varied - from reducing inflammation and pain, to helping with sleep. How do they do this? Proponents say grounding sheets connect you to the Earth's own electrical field and dissipate electrical charges in your body, built up though everyday activities like wearing rubber-soled trainers. Prices of grounding sheets vary from £30 to £150.

Listener Alison is thinking of buying one and wants to know if it could ease pain and help her sleep better. She joins Greg in the studio along with two experts for a deep-dive into the science to find out whether grounding sheets are the best thing since sliced bread - or marketing BS.

We are looking for more of YOUR suggestions of products to investigate. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT

PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND PHIL SANSOM

Which cooking oils are best for your health?

Listener Sarah got in touch after seeing claims on social media that more expensive oils are better for you than regular vegetable, or rapeseed oil. And listener Kamal sent us a voicenote asking about coconut and avocado oil - both touted as healthier alternatives to other types of oil. Are they worth the extra cost? And what about health concerns if certain oils are overheated?

To get the answers Greg is joined by Professor of Population Health and Nutrition at the University of Cambridge, Nita Forouhi. Together they deep-dive into the studies and evidence, finding out what compounds constitute a healthy oil and giving advice on what we should be looking out for on the bottle.

All of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT

PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND PHIL SANSOM

Listener Helen from Manchester got in touch to ask about Protein Powders, as she considered replenishing her supply that she’s been taking after long distance runs.

She wanted to know if Whey or Plant-based protein really can help her build and repair muscle, whether there’s a set amount she should be having, if one type is better than the other, or if she could just get the protein she needs from her food – and save on buying another bag?

Greg Foot brings back Professor of Human Physiology, Sport and Exercise Sciences at Liverpool, John Moores University, Graeme Close to answer Helen’s questions, tell us what our body needs and uses protein for, and whether it really can deliver ‘Gainz’ (with a Z.)

As always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT

PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH & PHIL SANSOM

Listener Steve got in touch with us after trying out a set of Smart Scales himself. He wanted to keep an eye on his protein levels – which his scales claimed to do – for health reasons, and because he’d heard that we need more protein as we get older.

His scales also promised to show him his body fat, muscle mass, and bone mass via a corresponding app on his phone. However, some of those readings didn’t seem quite right – making him question how accurate his scales are, and if they can REALLY tell you so much about yourself?

Greg Foot asks two experts - a GP and a professor of applied mathematics – to weigh in on the topic, and find out whether these scales can measure up.

As always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT

PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH

Can you insulate your home for less than £100?

With winter setting in listener Robin got in touch with Sliced Bread to find out if there's a way he can insulate his very old, very cold Victorian house on a budget. He's seen plastic films that go over the windows and silver foil-type backings that go behind the radiators. Do any of them work to keep the cold out and more of that precious heat in? And what about other solutions like thick curtains or blinds - can they be effective?

Greg is joined in the studio by listener Robin and expert David Farmer from the Energy House in Salford - a bespoke replica terraced house built in a warehouse which can recreate a range of weather conditions, from snowstorms to balmy summer days!

And as always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: SIMON HOBAN

The team has gone through over 100 episodes of Sliced Bread, and carved out five popular products that may well be heading down a chimney to you this Christmas.

Greg Foot will share with you the key points from experts we’ve spoken to on Air Fryers, Mascara, Perfume, Running Shoes, and DNA Ancestry Tests - as well as their conclusions in one handy festive slice! We’ve also updated some of the topics too. (The information in this episode was correct at the time of recording.)

And as always, all of our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number, 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH

Can wonder products halt hair loss and grow back luscious locks?

We're back with a new series of Sliced Bread and a fresh batch of investigations into your suggested wonder products. First up this time are lotions and pills that promise to stop hair loss - and even grow it back. For this episode Greg is joined at our Salford studios by two listeners, Ian and Kimberley.

Ian got in touch about two products he's seen - Minoxidil and Finasteride - which he hopes can help with male pattern baldness. And listener Kimberley is keen to know whether there's anything she can do about hair loss which is caused by menopause. To get the answers Greg speaks to one of the most cited researchers in the hair loss world - Ralf Paus - as they deep-dive into the studies to separate the science fact from the marketing claims.

As ever this series it's YOUR suggestions that are the start of all our investigations. If you've seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voicenote to our WhatsApp number 07543 306807

PRESENTER: Greg Foot PRODUCER: Simon Hoban

Listener Liz has recently switched to a coffee pod machine, that promises to deliver her a quick, convenient and delicious cup of coffee when she wants at the touch of a button. But she started to wonder about how the pods can be recycled, and whether her decision to swap to them had a greater impact on the environment?

Greg Foot ‘filters’ through the research on coffee’s carbon footprint alongside two experts, to find out where pods fall. He tastes the difference between a few different brewing methods, finds out how easy it is to recycle our pods, and what effect recycling them (or not) can have on their environmental impact. (The information in this episode was accurate at the time of recording.)

All our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you’ve seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voice note to our WhatsApp number 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: KATE HOLDSWORTH

Do we really need all those cleaning sprays?

Have a peek in anyone’s cupboard under the sink (ask first or it can get a bit weird) and you’re bound to find a clutch of cleaning sprays and products. The marketing often says they’re designed for certain rooms and do specific jobs.

But listener Alice wants to know if we really need different sprays for our bathrooms and kitchens. Will soap and water do the same job, and what about supermarket own-brand products? She’s also keen to know about the cleaning properties of natural products like vinegar…and what about the concentrated versions that allow you to add your own water?

Greg and Alice are joined by Dr Sally Bloomfield from the International Scientific Forum on Home Hygiene, as well as TV’s ‘Queen of Clean’, Lynsey Crombie, to run the science through the evidence mill.

All our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you've seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voicenote to our WhatsApp number 07543 306807

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: SIMON HOBAN

Can taking special supplements help us to live longer?

It's the 100th episode of Sliced Bread and to mark the occasion we're investigating the pills and supplements that claim to help us live longer - and more healthy - lives. Listener Soly has heard about so-called 'biohackers' such as Bryan Johnson in the US, who are trying to turn back the clock on their biological age and reverse the process that makes their bodies vulnerable to illness and disease. Each day they're taking a special blend of compounds and chemicals which they claim slow down or even reverse the hallmarks of ageing.

Increasingly these supplements and diet plans are available to buy - but are they worth the money? Can they really extend our lives beyond the current normal human lifespan? What does the evidence say so far about their effectiveness?

Greg is joined in the studio by Dr Andrew Steele, author of 'Ageless: The New Science of Getting Older Without Getting Old' to try to unlock the secrets of staying young and run the studies through the evidence mill.

We could not have made it to 100 episodes of Sliced Bread without YOUR suggestions for wonder products to investigate. Please do keep them coming! If you have seen something claiming to make you happier, healthier or greener, and want to know if it is SB or BS, then please do send it over on email to sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or drop us a message or voice note on WhatsApp to 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCERS: SIMON HOBAN AND PHIL SANSOM

Does a session in a float tank work wonders for your mental health and exercise recovery?

Listener Maddy has heard a lot about float tanks and joins Greg Foot to find out if it really is the latest product worth spending money on.

She’s a keen runner and wants to know if claims that it can help with exercise recovery stack up. And what about the effects on the brain? When Maddy's partner recently paid for a session in a float tank he reported a sense of both relaxation and euphoria, which helped him through a period of poor mental health. But is any of that backed up the science?

Greg speak to two experts in the field to run the studies through the evidence mill.

All of the ideas for out investigations come from you, our listeners, and we’re always on the lookout for more. If you have seen a wonder product that claims to make you happier, healthier or greener, and want to know if it is SB or BS, then please do send it over on email to sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or drop us a message or voice note on WhatsApp to 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: SIMON HOBAN

Listener Nikki from Essex has a problem in her garden with a certain slippery character – the slug. She told Sliced Bread that she’s lost many a plant to them, and had to abandon growing certain kinds altogether – because while they’re being a nuisance, she doesn’t want to harm them.

She has been researching non-lethal slug repellents, and wants to know if they actually work? Can things like egg shells, copper tape and wool pellets stop them in their slimy tracks?

We speak to principal entomologist at the Royal Horticultural Society Doctor Hayley Jones, as well as zoologist, ecologist and honorary fellow of the Royal Entomological Society, Doctor Gordon Port to find out. You can also hear us put some slugs through their paces – as we set up a test to see what they avoid…

All of the ideas for out investigations come from you, our listeners, and we’re always on the lookout for more. If you have seen a wonder product that claims to make you happier, healthier or greener, and want to know if it is SB or BS, then please do send it over on email to sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or drop us a message or voice note on WhatsApp to 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: Greg Foot

PRODUCER: Kate Holdsworth

Do drinks and powders with electrolytes help to hydrate you better?

Listener Rob got in touch as he’s recently taken up a new sport and wants to know if electrolytes can help his performance and recovery. He’s seen lots of adverts on social media for drinks and powders containing electrolytes that claim to hydrate you better than just plain water. But do they?

To find the answers, Greg speaks to Graeme Close, Professor of Human Physiology and Head of the Research Institute for Sports and Exercise Sciences at Liverpool John Moores University.

All our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you've seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voicenote to our WhatsApp number 07543 306807

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: SIMON HOBAN

Listener Raffi is tired of his morning coffee going cold by the time he's ready to drink it. There are plenty of products out there promising to do a better job than Raffi's flask, and they come with a range of price tags. But how do they work and what is the ideal drinking temperature? Dr Michael de Podesta, a chartered physicist and measurements expert, has been looking into these very questions. He joins Greg and Raffi in the studio to run through his experiments - and explain how 'double walled technology' works and whether it's the answer to Raffi's prayers. Michael's even been trying out a high tech cup that claims to instantly cool your drink to a perfect drinking temperature - and keep it there for hours. Insulated cups also claim to be leak proof, durable and - in some cases - dishwasher proof. So joining them for this one is Kamisha Darroux, principal scientific adviser for Which? to talk about the tests they do and which other features are worth spending your money on. So are insulated coffee cups the best thing since sliced bread?

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: TOM MOSELEY

Greens powders are made up of dozens of ingredients, which are ground up and added to water. They claim to do all sorts of things for our bodies, like give us extra energy, clearer skin, boost our gut health and reduce bloating. But they're not cheap. So what's in them and do they work? That's what listener Sofie, whose social feeds have been bombarded with adverts for greens powders, wants to know. She's not alone - we've had lots of messages asking us to look into these products. To get some answers, Greg speaks to British Dietetic Association spokeswoman Sian Porter, and food scientist Dr Emily Leeming.

The prices of the products were correct at the time of the recording.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: TOM MOSELEY

Lots of people use a foam roller, either before after exercise. It's not usually a very comfortable experience - as Greg finds out in this episode - but is worth the pain? Can they really increase flexibility before exercise, and ease our muscles afterwards? Is it any better than stretching? As you'd expect, there are plenty of claims around these products, which cost anything from a tenner to more than £100 for a vibrating version. We're going right around the world for this one - listener Brendon joins us all the way from New Zealand, and to get him some answers we've got foam roller expert Dr David Behm dialling in from Canada. National Physiotherapy Lead for Nuffield Health Jodie Breach also joins Greg in the studio. So are foam rollers the best thing since sliced bread?

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: TOM MOSELEY

Do more expensive dishwasher tablets clean better? And how do eco versions stack up?

We are back with a new series of Sliced Bread and even more investigations into your suggested wonder products! We'll also be hitting a significant milestone during this batch of programmes so look out for more on that.

First up - dishwasher tablets. Listener Deborah got in touch after hearing our deep-dive into dishwashers themselves and had some burning questions about the tablets we put in them. Do more expensive ones give you a better clean? Do they protect glasses better? And what about the eco brands that promise to be kinder to the environment?

Listener Graham sent a voicenote asking whether buying an 'all-in-one' tablet is better than using separate components, either for cleaning or the environment.

Greg's joined by Deborah and a panel of experts in our studio at Media City in Salford to run all these questions through the wash.

All our investigations start with YOUR suggestions. If you've seen an ad, trend or wonder product promising to make you happier, healthier or greener, email us at sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk OR send a voicenote to our WhatsApp number 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: GREG FOOT PRODUCER: SIMON HOBAN

Could fridges make way for kitchen cabinets that don't just keep food fresh but actually grow it?

Dough is a new series from BBC Radio 4 which looks at the business behind profitable, everyday products, assessing where the smart money is going now and what that could mean for all of us in the years ahead.

In this episode, the entrepreneur Sam White speaks with experts from the world of refrigeration including:

Federica Torelli – Head of Product Management with Smeg which makes fridge freezers.

Emir Lasic - Principal Analyst with the industry analysts, Omdia.

Jason Hirst - CEO and founder of EvoGro which makes plant growing cabinets.

Also joining them is the technology expert and applied futurist, Tom Cheesewright, who offers his insight and predictions on what might be coming beyond the current production pipeline.

Together, they explore fridge freezer trends and inventions chatting about their own choices for game changing, and pointless, innovations.

We hear how energy efficiency labels are not always as accurate as you might think and assess the chances of indoor incubators providing a new home for vegetables and leafy greens away from the fridge.

Produced by Viant Siddique & Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in August when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Will anyone iron clothes in the future?

Dough is a new series from BBC Radio 4 which looks at the business behind profitable, everyday products, assessing where the smart money is going now and what that could mean for all of us in the years ahead.

In this episode, the entrepreneur Sam White speaks with experts from the world of garment care including:

Leonor Carneiro - the category leader for garment care at Versuni which owns the Philips brand and is famous for making products including steam irons.

Veronika Kandusova - a consultant with the market researchers, Euromonitor International.

Frej Lewenhaupt - the CEO and co-founder of Steamery, a company which makes garment steamers.

Also joining them is the technology expert and applied futurist, Tom Cheesewright, who offers his insight and predictions on what might be coming beyond the current production pipeline.

Together, they explore the products that are replacing traditional irons, explain why fewer people in the UK tend to iron today and chat about their own choices for game changing and least effective ironing innovations.

We hear why clothes iron manufacturers are yet to crack battery power and get a tantalising glimpse of how even more of us might avoid ironing in the future.

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in August when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

How do modern hairdryers protect against damage from excessive heat?

Dough is a new series from BBC Radio 4 which looks at the business behind profitable, everyday products and considers how they might evolve in the future.

In this episode, the entrepreneur Sam White speaks with experts from the world of hairdryer manufacturing, namely Robyn Coutts, a senior design manager at Dyson and Andrew McDougall, director of beauty and personal care research at the analysts, Mintel.

Also joining them is the technology expert and applied futurist Tom Cheesewright, who offers his insight and predictions on what might be coming beyond the current production pipeline.

Together, they explore how hairdryers went from gas-powered chimneys to handheld devices, examine some of the latest trends and technology before giving their expert opinions on game-changing - and pointless - hair drying innovations.

Dough looks at where the smart money's going now and what that could mean for all of us in the years ahead.

Produced by Viant Siddique and Jon Douglas.

Dough is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in August when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sound

Why do we buy so many vacuum cleaners?

Dough is a new series from BBC Radio 4 which looks at the business behind profitable, everyday products and considers how they might evolve in the future.

In this episode, the entrepreneur Sam White speaks with experts from the world of vacuum cleaner manufacturing, including:

Grahame Capron-Tee - who has seen many significant changes during his long career in the industry;

Nick Grey - the inventor and founder of Gtech;

Anthony Williams - a global director at the data insights company, GFK.

Also joining them is the technology expert and applied futurist Tom Cheesewright, to offer his insight and predictions on what might be coming beyond the current production pipeline.

Together, they explore how vacuum cleaners went from exterior, horse-drawn contraptions to interior, automatic robots scuttling around on the floor, explain why UK households buy so many vacuum cleaners and give their expert views on game-changing - and pointless - product innovations.

There's a debate about bagged versus bagless vacuum cleaners and a discussion on when robotic vacuum cleaners might be able to clean more than just the floors.

Dough looks at where the smart money's going now and what that could mean for all of us in the years ahead.

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in August when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

What might our TV sets be like in the future?

Dough is a new series from BBC Radio 4 which looks at the business behind profitable, everyday products and considers how they might evolve in the years to come.

In this episode, the entrepreneur Sam White speaks with experts from the world of television manufacturing, including Brian Palmer, who has seen many interesting and amusing changes during his long career in the industry.

Brian is now the founder and chief executive officer of Cello Electronics (UK) Ltd which makes televisions at its factory in County Durham.

He gives a candid account of some of the ups and downs he has faced, while explaining how his business has always managed to make a profit, despite competition from global rivals.

Paul Gray is a Research Director for Consumer Electronics and Devices at the analysts, Omdia. With a background in TV manufacturing, he has considerable knowledge on how the business has changed.

Brian and Paul offer their views on game-changing - and pointless - TV innovations before considering where companies are investing their money now.

Tom Cheesewright, a technology expert and applied futurist, then offers his predictions on what might be coming beyond the current production pipeline.

TVs have come a long way in a relatively short space of time and where they are going next might surprise you!

Produced by Jon Douglas. Dough is a BBC Audio North production for BBC Radio 4 and BBC Sounds.

Sliced Bread returns for a new batch of investigations in August when Greg Foot will investigate more of the latest so-called wonder products to find out whether they really are the best thing since sliced bread.

In the meantime, Dough is available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds

Dough is a new series from BBC Radio 4 which looks at the business behind profitable, everyday products and considers how they might evolve in the future.

In each episode, entrepreneur Sam White, futurist Tom Cheesewright and a host of technology experts take on a popular product, look at where the smart money's going now and then try to predict what that could mean for all of us in the years ahead.

The series starts on BBC Radio 4 and will be available in the Sliced Bread feed on BBC Sounds weekly from Thursday, 18 July 2024.

Listener Chris from Suffolk recently took a DNA ancestry test, and after getting some interesting results back, he wondered how accurate they really were?

Greg Foot finds out by taking two tests himself – and has the results and his family tree revealed to him by DNA Genealogist from Finding Families, Louise Baldock.

He also speaks to Professor of Genetics at Leicester University Mark Jobling to find out what these companies are looking for, what they can or can’t determine from our DNA in terms of where we came from, and asks the question – is sharing our DNA with these companies safe?

All of the ideas for our investigations come from you, our listeners, and we’re always on the lookout for more. If you have seen a wonder product that claims to make you happier, healthier or greener, and want to know if it is SB or BS, then please do send it over on email to sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or drop us a message or voice note on WhatsApp to 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: Greg Foot

PRODUCER: Kate Holdsworth

Are the latest ear plugs better for gigs, focus and sleep?

In this special edition of Sliced Bread, recorded at the Hay Festival in South Wales, Greg Foot investigates the newer style of ear plugs. He's joined by listener Marni who's seen adverts for brands like Loop, which promise to protect your hearing at higher volumes while still allowing you to enjoy music at gigs. Other models in their range claim to give you better focus, shutting out extraneous noise but still allowing you to hear conversation. Or, in the case of their 'Quiet' model, sleep better.

As ever Greg's joined by two experts to deep-dive into the science and find out if the evidence backs up the marketing claims. And with the help of a special dummy head fitted with microphones, they carry out a series of tests to hear the difference between traditional foam ear plugs and the newer models.

If you have seen a wonder product that claims to make you happier, healthier or greener and want to know if it is SB or BS then please do send it over on email to sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or drop us a message or voicenote on Whatsapp to 07543 306807

PRESENTER: Greg Foot PRODUCERS: Kate Holdsworth and Simon Hoban

Can fortified drinks and spreads really reduce cholesterol?

Almost half of UK adults have raised cholesterol, according to the charity Heart UK - and Sliced Bread listener Cathy is one of them. She found out after taking a test at her GP and wants to do something about it. Her first plan of action is to make changes to her lifestyle, such as diet and exercise. As part of that, Cathy wants to know if the spreads and drinks that claim to lower cholesterol really do work.

Greg Foot is joined by Cathy and a panel of experts at our studios in Salford to investigate. What are the ingredients that are proven to lower cholesterol? How effective are they compared to widely-prescribed statins - and are the supermarket own brand versions of these drinks and spreads just as good as branded ones?

All of the ideas for our investigations come from you, our listeners, and we're always on the lookout for more. If you have seen a wonder product that claims to make you happier, healthier or greener and want to know if it is SB or BS then please do send it over on email to sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or drop us a message or voicenote on Whatsapp to 07543 306807

PRESENTER: Greg Foot PRODUCER: Simon Hoban

This episode has been edited since broadcast. Twelve year old Bradley got in touch with Sliced Bread after trying out his mum Jennifer’s acupressure mat. Jennifer says she swears by it, it relaxes her, and she even falls asleep on it! But after testing it out himself, he was less than convinced.

He asked us to find out what these mats are meant to do, whether they work or if they’re a placebo effect, and whether paying more for one could mean better results? Joining Greg in the studio to discuss them, is Clinical Acupuncturist Phil Trubshaw from the Manchester Movement Unit based at Manchester Metropolitan University, as well as the Director of Research at the Northern College of Acupuncture, Dr. Karen Charlesworth.

Have you seen a product that claims to make you happier, healthier or greener? Want to know if it is SB or BS? Then please do send it over on email to sliced.bread@bbc.co.uk or drop us a message or voicenote on Whatsapp to 07543 306807.

PRESENTER: Greg Foot

PRODUCER: Kate Holdsworth