A box of Twinkies, left alone for eight years, held some surprises for Colin Purrington. Upon having a sugar craving, combined with being "just so bored, with the pandemic," Purrington opened the box a few weeks ago. Like many people, Purrington believed Twinkies are basically immortal, although the official shelf life is <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/thesalt/2013/07/09/200465360/the-science-of-twinkies-how-do-they-last-so-long#:~:text=The%20Science%20Of%20Twinkies%3A%20How,Long%3F%20%3A%20The%20Salt%20%3A%20NPR&text=Live%20Sessions-,The%20Science%20Of%20Twinkies%3A%20How%20Do%20They%20Last%20So%20Darned,used%20to%20be%3A%2045%20days.">45 days</a>. NPR's <a href="https://www.npr.org/people/4494969/nell-greenfieldboyce">Nell Greenfieldboyce</a> talked to Purrington and explains how two scientists got involved and started unraveling the mystery of the mummified Twinkie. (Encore episode)<br/><br/>Learn more about sponsor message choices: <a href="https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices">podcastchoices.com/adchoices</a><br/><br/><a href="https://www.npr.org/about-npr/179878450/privacy-policy">NPR Privacy Policy</a>

The Mighty Mangrove

New discoveries, everyday mysteries, and the science behind the headlines — in just under 15 minutes. It's science for everyone, using a lot of creativity and a little humor. Join hosts Emily Kwong and Regina Barber for science on a different wavelength.If you're hooked, try Short Wave Plus. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/shortwave