Episode
214. Big Food Is Engineering Your Cravings (Former Insider Reveals How)
- Podcast
- Simple Doesn't Mean Easy
- Published
- Mar 16, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 1397
- Processing state
not_requested- Canonical source
- https://soulyrested.com/podcast/
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Summary
In this episode of Simple Doesn’t Mean Easy, Michelle Visser speaks with former food industry consultant Dr. Glenn Livingston, who once advised major food corporations on how to sell more processed foods. Dr. Livingston reveals how processed foods are intentionally engineered to keep consumers eating. From strategic packaging and advertising psychology to subtle flavor variations within a single bag of chips, food companies use sophisticated techniques to trigger our brain’s natural instincts for variety and reward. The conversation also explores how marketing claims—such as “made with avocado oil” or “no artificial dyes”—can make ultra-processed foods appear healthier than they really are. Dr. Livingston explains why processed foods create powerful cravings and why reducing them can dramatically improve eating habits. He also shares practical tools to help people regain control over their food choices and stop rationalizing unhealthy habits. This episode offers an eye-opening look into the psychology and science behind modern processed foods—and how to break free from their grip. Please check out our sponsors: https://soulyrested.com/coffee https://soulyrested.com/wholegrain https://soulyrested.com/teas Go here to get special offers for podcast listeners in your inbox: https://soulyrested.com/podcast/ Grab my Pantry Checklist (loaded with discounts on my favorite ingredients) for free right here: https://soulyrested.com/pantry/ FREE resources: Learn how to use fresh milled flour: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/k36hnsvbh7 Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52 Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvq Learn about baking with…