Why I’ve Decided to Say Goodbye to Vanilla Forever
Written on
Chapter 1: A Chilly Morning Craving
This morning, the air in the southwest of England is crisp, and oddly, it triggers a longing for ice cream infused with the invisible essence of vanilla, my all-time favorite. We often turn to treats for comfort, don’t we? Those familiar with my recent satirical take on the UK's current state will understand my frustration with the troubling conditions of our so-called civilized society. I find myself in need of something to wash away this bitter taste lingering in my mouth.
Lately, the government has been urging employers to increase wages for their employees instead of relying on cheap labor to cut costs. However, many employers resistant to change remain entrenched in their ways, lamenting their circumstances on Radio 4. I listen with a blend of hope and despair.
Now, back to the topic of vanilla before the algorithms bury this story among less relevant ones. It seems there's a rising wave of awareness, reminiscent of Jung's theories about repressed thoughts resurfacing as psychological wounds.
Section 1.1: The Plastic Problem
Speaking of wounds, we face a significant issue with plastic waste. The prevailing solution appears to be repurposing plastic into something else entirely. As someone without a scientific background, I find it perplexing that a substance once deemed non-edible can be transformed into something consumable. Yet, this notion inspires me for my science fiction writing—imagine traveling anywhere in mere minutes using something as improbable as an umbrella in our current reality, where health professionals are undervalued.
Recently, I came across an intriguing article by a PhD science writer named Abbey, discussing a scientific innovation that creates a substitute for artificial vanilla from plastic. It’s clear to me how much effort students invest in achieving such credentials, as I once toiled over my own thesis titled ‘The Imagination and Ego in Storytelling’ under the guidance of my tutor, Dr. Gary Farnell.
Section 1.2: A Decision to Avoid Flavorings
Returning to my main point, I’ve decided to eliminate all flavorings from my diet. This change was influenced by my partner, who encouraged me to buy discounted produce, which is significantly cheaper. However, as a writer struggling to make a living in a society that seems to be sleepwalking into oblivion, I find myself reconsidering my choices.
My skin has become increasingly sensitive since I contracted COVID and received multiple vaccinations. After enduring three COVID infections and four vaccinations, I’m uncertain if my skin issues stem from the vaccines, the virus, my love for chocolate, or my habitual tea consumption. I’ve even consulted a cancer specialist, who couldn’t perform a biopsy because my skin had healed just before my appointment.
With the information I gleaned from Abbey’s thoughtful article, I’m resolved to return to my previous habits of avoiding anything labeled ‘flavoring’ on food packaging. I’ve learned that "flavoring" often conceals a multitude of undesirable ingredients. I would rather avoid food than allow these hidden substances to infiltrate my body, as I believe in the old adage: you are what you eat. Hence, I find myself increasingly averse to vanilla.
P.S.: According to Abbey, this topic is still in the experimental phase.
Chapter 2: Unpacking the Implications of Artificial Flavoring
The first video explores the notion that consuming artificial vanilla could change your perspective on flavors forever.
The second video presents reactions to the idea of abandoning vanilla, offering an entertaining take on the topic.