214. Big Food Is Engineering Your Cravings (Former Insider Reveals How)
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214. Big Food Is Engineering Your Cravings (Former Insider Reveals How)

23:17 Mar 16, 2026
About this episode
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/coffeehttps://soulyrested.com/wholegrainhttps://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/k36hnsvbh7Learn about kombucha (and grab some of my favorite recipes): https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/b91bdd18-3581-414f-b145-8acd2e508a52Learn about dehydrating food: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/fl36xcgpvqLearn about baking with maple syrup: https://view.flodesk.com/pages/62116313e0eda1a0d870b747Learn about making your own maple syrup: https://graceful-base-213.myflodesk.com/q5ecjrundzLooking for more free resources? Choose from even more FREE e-courses here: https://soulyrested.com/howto/All my favorite ingredients: https://soulyrested.com/the-best-ingredients-in-my-kitchen/About Michelle VisserHi, so nice to meet you! I’m Michelle, a former processed food junkie turned real-food enthusiast.My husband and I live on a small New England farm and sugarbush with a lot of gardens. But I’m passionate about helping folks have more real food in their lives, no matter where they live. No farm or garden required.Visit https://soulyrested.com/ for more👋Find me in all the places:My book: https://amzn.to/45Pt8Pu My website: https://soulyrested.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/s
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