Bottoms Up: Microbe Mixology with Zbiotics' Zack Abbott.
Karl and Erum are exploring the world of modern probiotics with Zack Abbott, co-founder of Z Biotics. They discuss the innovative approach Z Biotics takes in engineering probiotics to offer tangible benefits, specifically focusing on their flagship product designed to alleviate the unpleasant after-effects of alcohol consumption. Zack shares a look into the science behind their probiotic, explaining how it breaks down toxic byproducts in the gut, thereby improving the next-day experience after drinking. The conversation also touches on the broader implications of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in consumer products, challenging common misconceptions and tells the potential for biotechnology to enhance everyday health solutions. You’ll definitely leave this episode with a deeper understanding of both the potential and the responsible use of GMOs in creating products that not only solve real-world problems but also pave the way for more informed and nuanced discussions about biotechnology.
Chapters
00:00:00 - Debunking the Anti-GMO Myth
00:00:29 - Karl and Erum: Sneaker Trends and Fashion Observations
00:02:37 - 4th of July Plans and Summer Adventures
00:05:17 - Ginkgo Bioworks Restructuring
00:07:28 - The Debate on Synthetic Vitamins
00:13:07 - Introducing Zack Abbott
00:15:00 - Origin Story and Inspiration Behind Z Biotics
00:17:00 - The Science of Alcohol Metabolism
00:21:00 - How Z Biotics Works in the Gut
00:23:00 - Engineering Safe and Effective Probiotics
00:27:00 - Ensuring Compatibility with Human Microbiomes
00:29:00 - Addressing Consumer Skepticism
00:31:00 - The Role of Transparency in GMO Products
00:33:00 - Public Perception and Marketing Strategies
00:34:39 - Exploring the Benefits of Prebiotics
00:35:03 - Ensuring Safety and Efficacy
00:36:35 - Market Launch and Consumer Feedback
00:38:51 - Public Perception of GMOs
00:41:50 - Advocating for Genetic Engineering
00:45:16 - Future Applications and Product Development
00:46:09 - Responsible Use of Biotechnology
00:54:21 - The Role of Biotechnology in Consumer Health
00:57:29 - Advice for Aspiring Biotech Entrepreneurs
00:59:42 - Final Thoughts and Reflections
Topics Covered: biotech, bioengineering, microbiology, gut microbiome, consumer biotech, prealcohol, oral microbiome, entrepreneurship, acetaldehyde, alcohol, next-day effects.
