The Toronto–born head of fermentation at Copenhagen’s two Michelin–starred Noma opens his bag before travelling to give a lecture at Harvard.

Book I’m a voracious reader. I love grabbing a meal by myself and digging into scientific non–fiction, be it quantum gravity research or culinary anthropology. Ian Morris’ Foragers, Farmers, and Fossil Fuels is up next.

Chaga This fungus that grows on birch trees is my secret weapon. Long tours can often hit your immune system, and a quick tea from this amazing adaptogen puts your body right back on track.

Autoclave bottles I always carry sample ferments in these and if I’m travelling to a demo, I keep them in my carry–on because they hold 100 ml, and they are indestructible.

Film camera I bought this Canon at a vintage camera shop in Kyoto. When I have it with me, I see the world through a different lens and consider everything a potential photograph.

Crossbody bag My girlfriend, Matilda Venczel, is an extremely talented leather handbag designer. I love this vibrant red one: It seemed unisex enough for me, so I wear it with my keys and iPhone inside.