# Where's The Beef?

> From the smoke-filled skies of California to the hyperinflated markets of Zimbabwe, a look at global energy dominance, aviation breakthroughs, and the politics of food safety.

- **Show:** [The No Agenda Show](https://search.noagendashow.net/index.md)
- **Episode:** 37
- **Published:** 2008-06-28
- **Length:** 2h 4m
- **Topics:** [California Wildfires](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/california-wildfires.md), [Nelson Mandela](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nelson-mandela.md), [Gazprom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gazprom.md), Beef Riots, Vision Jet, [Codex Alimentarius](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/codex-alimentarius.md), Oil Speculation
- **Web page:** https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef

## About this episode

Northern California is currently engulfed in a persistent haze as over 1,200 active wildfires send heavy smoke across the region. While hundreds of homes have been destroyed, shifting wind patterns are recirculating ash from distant blazes rather than immediate local threats. The environmental crisis coincides with a significant political milestone as Nelson Mandela celebrates his 90th birthday in London, marked by the United States finally removing the former president and the African National Congress from federal terrorist watchlists.

Global instability extends to Zimbabwe, where the economic collapse under Robert Mugabe has forced citizens to carry bricks of hyperinflated cash for basic goods. In South Korea, massive riots over American beef imports have stalled a major free trade agreement, reflecting deep-seated cultural anxieties regarding national sovereignty. Meanwhile, Gazprom CEO Alexei Miller predicts oil prices will hit $250 per barrel, asserting that OPEC has lost its influence over a market increasingly dominated by Russian energy interests and unregulated financial speculation via the Enron loophole. On the consumer front, EU Commissioner Viviane Reding has launched a crackdown on anachronistic mobile roaming charges to protect travelers from predatory telecommunications pricing.

Personal aviation enters a new era with the development of the Cirrus Vision SJ50, a single-engine personal jet designed to operate with the simplicity of a minivan. The segment also explores the "two dogs" theory of creative failure popularized by Phil Spector and the peculiar security trends in Mexico and Brazil, where wealthy citizens now drive inconspicuous clunkers or bulletproof luxury cars to evade kidnapping cartels. The program concludes with a look at the technical hurdles of transatlantic recording and the shifting sociology of podcast loyalty.

## Chapters

Each chapter's transcript is at its own link. The whole transcript is at https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/transcript.md.

### 1. Northern California Wildfires, Smoke Accumulation (0:01–2:22)

Northern California is experiencing heavy smoke accumulation from over 1,200 active fires. The smoke has settled across the region due to shifting north and south winds, creating a persistent haze and a noticeable odor. While hundreds of homes have been destroyed in various parts of the state, the current wind patterns are recirculating smoke from distant fires rather than immediate local threats.

Keywords: [northern california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northern-california.md), [wildfires](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wildfires.md), [smoke](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/smoke.md), [santa ana winds](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/santa-ana-winds.md), [air quality](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/air-quality.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/1.md)

### 2. Skype Latency, ISDN Hardware Transition (2:22–6:26)

The technical challenges of recording a podcast between the United Kingdom and the United States involve significant Skype latency, often resulting in 0.8-second delays and conversational overlaps. Plans are discussed to transition to a dedicated ISDN setup using AAC codecs to improve audio quality and reduce buffering issues. One host has already installed ISDN capabilities at a property in San Francisco to facilitate this change.

Keywords: [skype](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/skype.md), [latency](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/latency.md), [isdn](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isdn.md), aac codec, ip packets

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/2.md)

### 3. Nelson Mandela 90th Birthday, US Terrorist List Removal (6:27–10:10)

Nelson Mandela celebrated his 90th birthday with a massive concert in Hyde Park, London, featuring performers like Will Smith, Jay-Z, and Amy Winehouse. Coinciding with the celebration, the United States approved a bill to officially remove Mandela and the African National Congress from the federal terrorist and no-fly lists. The event caused significant traffic disruptions in London while drawing global media attention.

Keywords: [nelson mandela](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nelson-mandela.md), [hyde park](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hyde-park.md), [will smith](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/will-smith.md), terrorist list, [no-fly list](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/no-fly-list.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/3.md)

### 4. Zimbabwe Economic Collapse, Robert Mugabe Election Controversy (10:10–14:46)

Zimbabwe is facing a total economic collapse characterized by hyperinflation, where basic goods cost billions of Zimbabwe dollars and citizens carry "bricks" of cash for small purchases. Political tension remains high as President Robert Mugabe refuses to leave office despite international pressure and reports of violence against political opponents. The crisis has led to a mass exodus of millions of Zimbabweans into neighboring South Africa.

Keywords: [zimbabwe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/zimbabwe.md), [robert mugabe](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/robert-mugabe.md), [hyperinflation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/hyperinflation.md), rhodesia, [south africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-africa.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/4.md)

### 5. Uganda Reminiscences, African Wildlife Artifacts (14:46–18:09)

A host recounts living in Uganda for three years during the presidency of Milton Obote, just prior to the rise of Idi Amin. The family collected various artifacts during this time, including carved ivory tusks, zebra skin rugs, and lion skins, which were legal at the time. There are plans to digitize Super 8mm film footage of African wildlife and family life from that era before the physical media deteriorates.

Keywords: [uganda](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/uganda.md), idi amin, super 8mm, ivory, [artifacts](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/artifacts.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/5.md)

### 6. India and Africa Mobile Market Explosion (18:10–20:59)

The mobile phone markets in India and Africa are expanding rapidly, with reports indicating up to 60 million new subscribers per month across both regions. Nokia is targeting these emerging markets with low-cost "candy bar" phones, as many users are experiencing the internet for the first time via handheld devices rather than computers. These high-volume, low-margin devices are driving a digital revolution in developing nations.

Keywords: [nokia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nokia.md), [india](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/india.md), [africa](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/africa.md), mobile subscribers, handheld devices

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/6.md)

### 7. Jamaica Tourism, Round Hill Villa Rentals (21:00–26:50)

Round Hill in Jamaica is a luxury closed community established in the 1950s where high-profile individuals like Ralph Lauren and Bob Pittman own villas. These properties are managed centrally and must be rented out for a specific number of weeks per year, often costing upwards of $10,000 per week during peak season. The location is described as having a "Casablanca" vibe with personalized service, including dedicated cooks and housekeepers for each villa.

Keywords: [jamaica](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/jamaica.md), round hill, [ralph lauren](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/ralph-lauren.md), [bob pittman](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bob-pittman.md), luxury villas

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/7.md)

### 8. Flickr Photo Management, Creative Commons Copyright Case (26:51–33:32)

A discussion regarding personal photography habits leads to a mention of a legal victory involving Creative Commons licenses after a gossip magazine misappropriated photos from a Flickr account. The hosts examine various photo sets on the platform, including images from the Isle of Wight and family vacations. The conversation highlights the utility of Flickr for bloggers despite occasional interface frustrations.

Keywords: [flickr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flickr.md), [creative commons](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/creative-commons.md), [copyright](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/copyright.md), [photography](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/photography.md), [isle of wight](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/isle-of-wight.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/8.md)

### 9. Yahoo Acquisition of Flickr, Data Access Issues (33:35–35:08)

The acquisition of Flickr by Yahoo has caused technical difficulties for long-time users, including broken uploaders and password synchronization issues. One host describes how a massive archive of hundreds of photos from the ZDTV era is currently "frozen in limbo" due to these integration problems. This has led to a loss of interest in maintaining public photo albums on the platform.

Keywords: [yahoo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/yahoo.md), [flickr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/flickr.md), zdttv, data migration, photo albums

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/9.md)

### 10. GPS Chipsets, Virtual World Recreation (35:09–37:40)

New GPS chipsets are enabling cameras to record not just location, but also altitude and compass direction (azimuth) within seconds of being powered on. This rich metadata allows for the potential recreation of the physical world in virtual space by aggregating millions of geotagged photos. This technology scales beyond traditional street mapping by utilizing community-contributed data to build immersive digital environments.

Keywords: [gps](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gps.md), [geotagging](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/geotagging.md), azimuth, [microsoft](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/microsoft.md), virtual space

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/10.md)

### 11. Google Street View, Privacy Concerns (37:41–42:22)

The expansion of Google Street View into residential neighborhoods has sparked a debate over the balance between utility and privacy. While Google Earth provides valuable situational awareness for pilots approaching new airfields, the detailed imaging of private homes is described as "creepy." This discussion extends to broader surveillance concerns, including government access to credit card transaction data and the proliferation of public cameras.

Keywords: [google street view](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-street-view.md), [google earth](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-earth.md), [privacy](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/privacy.md), [credit cards](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/credit-cards.md), [surveillance](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surveillance.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/11.md)

### 12. George Orwell 1984, Celebrity Distractions (42:23–46:08)

A listener contribution cites George Orwell's "1984" to explain why citizens often fail to defend their liberties, focusing instead on petty grievances and primitive patriotism. The hosts argue that modern celebrity culture, featuring figures like Britney Spears and Amy Winehouse, serves as a primary distraction from the erosion of civil rights. This "bread and circuses" dynamic is used to explain public apathy toward government overreach.

Keywords: [george orwell](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/george-orwell.md), [1984](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/1984.md), [britney spears](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/britney-spears.md), [amy winehouse](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/amy-winehouse.md), [patriotism](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/patriotism.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/12.md)

### 13. Cirrus Vision Jet, Personal Aviation Revolution (46:08–50:49)

Cirrus Design is developing "The Jet" (Vision SJ50), a single-engine personal jet priced at approximately $1.3 million. Designed to operate with the simplicity of a minivan, the aircraft features a distinctive V-tail and a seven-person capacity. This new category of Very Light Jets (VLJ) aims to revolutionize general aviation by offering jet performance at a price point comparable to high-end turboprops.

Keywords: cirrus design, the jet, v-tail, personal aviation, vlj

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/13.md)

### 14. Aircraft Composites, Ballistic Recovery Systems (50:49–54:38)

Modern aircraft manufacturing has shifted from wood and aluminum to high-strength composites and carbon fiber, as seen in the Boeing Dreamliner and Cirrus models. Cirrus aircraft are notable for including a Ballistic Recovery System (BRS), a whole-plane parachute designed for emergencies. However, some aviators argue that these safety systems may encourage inexperienced pilots to take unnecessary risks in poor weather conditions.

Keywords: composite materials, [fiberglass](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/fiberglass.md), parachute, brs, corey liddle

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/14.md)

### 15. Air Taxi Industry, Williams International Engines (54:39–57:28)

The emergence of Very Light Jets (VLJs) is fueling a new air taxi industry across the United States, utilizing smaller, more efficient turbine engines. Companies like Williams International are providing the specialized fanjet engines required for these small aircraft. Other major players, including Honda, are also entering the market with their own light jet designs to compete in the corporate and personal travel sectors.

Keywords: air taxis, williams international, fanjet, vlj, honda jet

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/15.md)

### 16. Gazprom Market Capitalization, Oil Price Predictions (57:29–59:06)

The CEO of Gazprom, the Russian state-controlled energy giant, has predicted that oil prices could reach $250 per barrel by next year. He claims that OPEC no longer influences global prices and that Gazprom is on track to become the world's most influential energy company with a target market capitalization of one trillion dollars. This aggressive stance highlights Russia's growing dominance in the global energy sector.

Keywords: [gazprom](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gazprom.md), [russia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/russia.md), [oil prices](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/oil-prices.md), market capitalization, [energy market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/energy-market.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/16.md)

### 17. Enron Loophole, Oil Market Speculation (59:06–1:02:59)

Critics argue that current record-high oil prices are driven by market manipulation and the "Enron loophole," which allows for unregulated energy trading. Financial speculators now control an estimated one-third of the commodities market, leading to claims that prices are rigged rather than based on supply and demand. Despite calls for reform, heavy lobbying in Washington has prevented Congress from fully closing these regulatory gaps.

Keywords: enron loophole, oil speculation, [morgan stanley](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/morgan-stanley.md), [commodities](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/commodities.md), [lobbyists](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/lobbyists.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/17.md)

### 18. EU Roaming Regulations, Viviane Reding Interview (1:03:00–1:07:52)

EU Commissioner Viviane Reding is leading a crackdown on "anachronistic" mobile roaming charges across Europe. In a recent interview, she detailed her efforts to force telecommunications operators to lower prices for voice calls, text messages, and mobile data. Reding has threatened strict regulation if operators do not voluntarily reduce the exorbitant costs associated with crossing borders within the European Union.

Keywords: viviane reding, [european union](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/european-union.md), [roaming charges](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/roaming-charges.md), [sms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sms.md), [mobile data](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mobile-data.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/18.md)

### 19. Free Market Absolutism, Mobile Network Marketing (1:07:53–1:12:23)

A critique of free market absolutism suggests that total deregulation leads to quasi-price fixing and consumer exploitation in the telecom industry. In the United States, mobile marketing focuses almost entirely on network coverage and "bars" rather than the hardware itself, a strategy that has limited Nokia's market share. This duopoly-like environment contrasts with the more hardware-centric and competitive markets found in Europe.

Keywords: [free market](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-market.md), [deregulation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/deregulation.md), [nokia](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/nokia.md), mobile networks, [price fixing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/price-fixing.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/19.md)

### 20. Disposable Phones, Youth Texting Habits (1:12:24–1:14:30)

Prepaid or "disposable" phones are presented as a cost-effective alternative to complex monthly contracts that often feature indecipherable billing. While older users may prefer voice calls, younger generations have shifted almost entirely to constant SMS text messaging as their primary form of communication. This behavioral shift has made traditional voice-centric mobile plans less relevant for the youth demographic.

Keywords: disposable phones, prepaid mobile, [texting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/texting.md), [sms](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sms.md), [billing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/billing.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/20.md)

### 21. Podcast Consumption, Car Audio Integration (1:14:31–1:18:37)

The consumption of long-form audio content is evolving as listeners move away from traditional radio toward podcasts and lectures. Modern vehicles are increasingly equipped with USB ports and 3.5mm jacks, allowing users to play MP3 files directly from thumb drives. This shift is particularly prevalent among commuters who prefer personality-driven, commercial-free content over mainstream radio broadcasts.

Keywords: [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md), [mp3](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mp3.md), [car audio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/car-audio.md), [usb](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/usb.md), thumb drives

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/21.md)

### 22. Radio Culture, Independent Media vs. NPR (1:18:38–1:21:38)

While radio culture remains strong in the UK through outlets like BBC Radio 4, American radio is often criticized for being overly commercial or "ponderous" in the case of NPR. Independent podcasts are filling the gap for listeners seeking contemporary personalities and niche topics. Some listeners still find value in "low-brow" formats like sports talk radio or political chatter for entertainment.

Keywords: radio 4, [npr](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/npr.md), [sports talk radio](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sports-talk-radio.md), podango, [independent media](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/independent-media.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/22.md)

### 23. Podcast Subscription Lists, BBC News Pod (1:21:38–1:26:54)

A review of personal podcast subscriptions reveals a mix of mainstream and independent content, including the BBC News Pod, Howard Stern, and various tech-focused shows. Some users prefer "hunter-gatherer" style manual downloads of lectures and marketing conferences, while others rely on automated RSS feeds. Shorter-form content like the New York Times front page is often used for quick daily updates.

Keywords: bbc news pod, [howard stern](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/howard-stern.md), [itunes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/itunes.md), [google reader](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-reader.md), [tech 5](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tech-5.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/23.md)

### 24. Podcast Sociology, Listener Retention Patterns (1:26:54–1:32:49)

The sociology of podcast listening suggests that regularity and "mainlining" a show's conversation are key to building a loyal audience. However, long-form shows face the risk of listener burnout if the content becomes repetitive or the quality dips. Unlike traditional marketing rules, lost podcast listeners often return to a show after a hiatus, as they remain "one click away" through their subscription software.

Keywords: [sociology](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sociology.md), listener loyalty, the gilmore gang, [buzz out loud](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/buzz-out-loud.md), [podcasting](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/podcasting.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/24.md)

### 25. Phil Spector Lecture, The Two Dogs Theory (1:32:49–1:36:27)

A lecture by Phil Spector at the University of California detailed the "two dogs" theory of the singles business: a creator can survive one failure, but two consecutive "dogs" (poor performers) will end a career. This principle is applied to other creative endeavors like column writing and podcasting. Maintaining a high standard of quality is essential to prevent fickle audiences from permanently disengaging.

Keywords: [phil spector](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/phil-spector.md), wheeler auditorium, hit singles, column writing, record industry

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/25.md)

### 26. Team Blogging, Dvorak Uncensored Strategy (1:36:27–1:39:33)

To avoid the burnout associated with high-frequency posting, many successful bloggers have transitioned to "team blogging" models. This approach ensures a constant stream of content, which is necessary to keep readers returning in an era of RSS readers like Google Reader. By aggregating multiple voices under one brand, a blog can maintain high traffic without exhausting a single author.

Keywords: team blogging, [dvorak uncensored](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/dvorak-uncensored.md), burn out, [google reader](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/google-reader.md), content frequency

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/26.md)

### 27. Headline Writing, Tabloid Marketing Techniques (1:39:35–1:42:03)

Effective headline writing is identified as the most critical skill for bloggers and journalists to capture attention in crowded digital feeds. European magazines, particularly those in the UK, are noted for their superior, newsstand-oriented cover designs compared to subscription-heavy US publications. Studying the aggressive, "grabbing" headlines of British tabloids and magazines like Maxim is recommended for improving click-through rates.

Keywords: headline writing, [maxim](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/maxim.md), felix dennis, newsstand, [marketing](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/marketing.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/27.md)

### 28. Mexico Border Violence, Kidnapping Extortion (1:42:06–1:45:20)

Violence from Mexican drug cartels is reportedly spilling into US border towns, including a high-profile murder in Phoenix allegedly linked to the Mexican army. Kidnapping for ransom has become a significant business in Mexico, leading wealthy citizens to drive inconspicuous "clunker" cars to avoid targeting. In Brazil, this security concern has created a massive market for ruggedized, bulletproof luxury vehicles.

Keywords: [mexico](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mexico.md), [phoenix](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/phoenix.md), [drug cartels](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/drug-cartels.md), [kidnapping](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/kidnapping.md), armored cars

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/28.md)

### 29. South Korean Beef Riots, US Trade Relations (1:45:20–1:51:05)

Massive riots in South Korea over the importation of American beef have threatened a major free trade agreement. Former US Ambassador Donald Gregg explains that the issue is deeply cultural, as Koreans are protective of their domestic agricultural traditions and the livelihoods of rural farmers. While the protests are framed around concerns over mad cow disease, they reflect broader sensitivities regarding national sovereignty and US influence.

Keywords: [south korea](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/south-korea.md), beef riots, [donald gregg](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/donald-gregg.md), [free trade agreement](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/free-trade-agreement.md), [mad cow disease](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/mad-cow-disease.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/29.md)

### 30. Salmonella Outbreak, Mexican Tomato Irrigation (1:51:05–1:55:10)

A salmonella outbreak in the United States has been linked to tomatoes, with some experts pointing to the use of untreated wastewater for irrigation in Mexico. The contamination may occur when water is absorbed through the stem hole during the washing process at industrial plants. There is a growing consumer demand for country-of-origin labeling on produce to allow buyers to identify the source of their food.

Keywords: [salmonella](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/salmonella.md), [tomatoes](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/tomatoes.md), [irrigation](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/irrigation.md), [wastewater](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wastewater.md), [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/30.md)

### 31. Codex Alimentarius, Global Food Regulations (1:55:11–1:58:45)

The Codex Alimentarius is a set of international food standards established by the WTO that is increasingly being ratified into national laws. Critics argue that these regulations, backed by large corporations like Monsanto, could limit access to vitamins and homeopathic medicines. The "harmonization" of these food codes is scheduled to take effect in the United States and Europe by early 2009.

Keywords: [codex alimentarius](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/codex-alimentarius.md), [wto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/wto.md), [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), food code, [vitamins](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/vitamins.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/31.md)

### 32. Monsanto Genetically Modified Crops, Patent Lawsuits (1:58:45–2:01:30)

Monsanto has faced criticism for its aggressive enforcement of patents on genetically modified (GM) seeds, such as Roundup-resistant varieties. Concerns are rising that GM pollen can drift into neighboring non-GM fields, potentially leading to lawsuits against farmers for "unlicensed" crops. Additionally, the company has been involved in legal battles regarding the labeling of milk from cows treated with bovine growth hormone (BST).

Keywords: [monsanto](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/monsanto.md), [gmo](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/gmo.md), [roundup](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/roundup.md), patent law, [bst](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/bst.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/32.md)

### 33. Media Debate Tactics, Show Outro (2:01:31–2:03:54)

A discussion on media manipulation tactics describes how debates are often staged by pairing a reasonable representative of one side with an "insane" representative of the other to sway public opinion. The program concludes with the hosts signing off from their respective locations in smoky Northern California and sun-drenched Surrey, UK, promising to return the following week.

Keywords: media tactics, [debate](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/debate.md), [northern california](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/northern-california.md), [surrey](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/surrey.md), [sign-off](https://search.noagendashow.net/topic/sign-off.md)

[Chapter transcript](https://search.noagendashow.net/episode/37-where-s-the-beef/chapter/33.md)

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