Dr. Peter Aitken

Peter Aitken writes Kitchen Myths, an evidence-based food science blog focused on separating culinary fact from fiction. His work examines cooking claims, nutrition myths, food history, and common kitchen folklore with an emphasis on science-based evidence, clear reasoning, and practical usefulness for home cooks.

My Background

I was born in New York City and raised in the suburbs on Long Island. I learned an appreciation of good food and cooking from my parents, who also supported my lifelong interest in science. My formal education culminated with a PhD degree in neuroscience from the University of Connecticut. I spent the next 25 years at Cornell University and then on the faculty at Duke University Medical Center, where I was involved in teaching and basic research. After leaving Duke I was an independent consultant in the pharmaceutical industry working on the development of new drugs.

Bringing my scientific background and love of cooking together was a thought in the back of my mind for many years. Only since retiring in 2016 have I been able to devote the necessary time. My Kitchen Myths blog is the result.

Personal

When I am not working on Kitchen Myths you might find me in the kitchen stirring a pot or kneading bread. I love working in my vegetable garden and enjoying the fruits of my labors! I have a life-long interest in photography and frequently display my work at local venues. You can see my work at www.peteraitken.com. I am an avid reader and usually have one non-fiction book and one mystery going at the same time.