Residents and visitors on the Long Beach Peninsula will soon have an opportunity to explore the science behind one of Washington’s most iconic crops during the upcoming “Cranberries and the Microbiome” Workshop, hosted at the Cranberry Museum in Long Beach.

Led by food scientist Ahhria Kirkendall, PhD, often known as The Cranberry Doctor, the workshop will dive into the latest research exploring how cranberries interact with the human microbiome and their potential role in supporting urinary tract health.

Exploring the Science Behind Cranberries

Cranberries are deeply tied to Pacific Northwest agriculture, but their health benefits continue to gain scientific attention. During the workshop, attendees will learn how compounds found in cranberries may influence bacteria in the body, including research examining their connection to urinary tract infection prevention.

Dr. Kirkendall, a researcher affiliated with Washington State University, has studied how cranberry products affect the human microbiome — the complex ecosystem of beneficial microbes that play a key role in digestion, immunity, and overall health.

The session aims to make food science approachable and interactive, translating emerging research into practical, easy-to-understand insights for the public.

A Hands-On Food Science Experience

Organizers describe the event as both educational and fun. Guests will enjoy cranberry-themed refreshments while participating in what organizers call a “little food science experiment,” designed to help attendees better understand how food and health are connected.

The workshop blends local agricultural heritage with modern nutritional science, highlighting how traditional crops continue to shape new discoveries in health research.

Event Details

Where:
Cranberry Museum
2907 Pioneer Road
Long Beach, Washington

When:

• Friday, May 29, 2026 — 3:00 PM
• Saturday, May 30, 2026 — 11:00 AM

Attendees are encouraged to RSVP in advance using the QR code provided on event materials and may submit questions for the presenter ahead of the workshop.

About the Presenter

Dr. Ahhria Kirkendall (“Aria”) is a food scientist specializing in cranberry research and microbiome science. Her work focuses on understanding how natural food compounds interact with human health. Outside the lab, she is also known as a mixologist and lives north of Seattle with her family and pets.

Connecting Science, Health, and Local Culture

The workshop reflects the growing interest in food as medicine and highlights Washington’s cranberry industry as more than just a seasonal tradition. By connecting agricultural roots with cutting-edge science, the event offers Peninsula residents a unique chance to learn how everyday foods may influence long-term wellness.

---