Institute trip to the Herrenhausen School Biology Center: Learning about Christmas spices

On November 26, 2025, the Institute of Physical Chemistry and Electrochemistry organized a Christmas outing to the School Biology Center in Herrenhausen. Starting at 2 p.m., a themed seminar entitled “The Botany of Christmas Cookies” was offered there. In this course, participants received an exciting introduction to the plant world behind the traditional ingredients of our Christmas cookies. A special highlight was the spice and Christmas cookie tasting, where the goal was to taste and identify the different spices.

Participants also had the opportunity to learn about the plants from which the ingredients for the cookies are obtained. Other topics covered in the seminar included the different regions where the spice plants are grown and harvested. The seminar was rounded off with fascinating stories about spices, ranging from ancient times to the present day.

After the seminar, a cozy get-together took place at the institute, where hot and cold drinks and a warming soup were provided. There was also a varied potluck buffet with creative delicacies designed to match the Christmas season in both form and taste. It was an all-around successful, educational, and convivial experience for everyone involved.