Ep 3. Surgery and Soda Pop

In season 2 episode 3 of A Taste of History titled "Surgery and Soda Pop," host Chef Walter Staib takes viewers on a journey through the history of soda and its connection to medicine. He explores the origins of soda during the 19th century and how it was marketed as a health tonic and cure for various ailments.

Staib begins the episode by discussing the shift from traditional herbal remedies to the introduction of chemical compounds in medicine during the 1800s. He highlights how Dr. Phillip Syng Physick, a prominent surgeon in Philadelphia, was instrumental in the development of soda as a medicinal beverage. Physick realized that the effervescence of soda water could help dissolve medicines and make them more palatable for patients.

Staib then visits a friend who runs a soda fountain shop in Philadelphia to learn more about the history of soda. They discuss the creation of various soda flavors, including sarsaparilla, ginger ale, and root beer, and their links to medicine. Staib also tries his hand at making a traditional soda fountain drink and experiments with adding medicinal ingredients to the mix.

In addition to exploring the connection between soda and medicine, the episode also delves into the history of surgery. Staib visits the Mütter Museum in Philadelphia, which houses a collection of medical instruments and specimens. He learns about the evolution of surgical techniques and tools, from primitive scalpels to more modern instruments used today. Staib also discusses the role of anesthesia in surgery and how it revolutionized the field.

As always, the episode features a cooking segment where Staib prepares a historical recipe. In this episode, he cooks up a dish called ‘roast beef with mushroom ketchup’ which was a popular dish in the 18th and 19th century. The recipe is a combination of roast beef, mushrooms, cream and spices which results in a delicious dish that is easy to cook and authentic to the time period.

Overall, "Surgery and Soda Pop" provides a fascinating look at the history of soda and its connection to medicine, as well as a glimpse into the evolution of surgery. With Chef Walter Staib as our guide, viewers are taken on a journey through time that is both entertaining and educational.