The foods we currently consume have had to go through various eras and many of them have been treated differently from today. Here are 7 historical facts that will surprise you and make you see your food in a different light!
1- Salt has already been a currency
In the time of the Romans, salt was so precious that it was used as money. The term "salary" comes from the Latin word "salarium", since the Roman legionaries were paid with salt.
2- In the Middle Ages, beer was safer to drink than water
Many bar owners would be happy with this situation today, but in the Middle Ages it was much more prudent to drink beer than water since it was sterilized by the process of cooking and fermentation. Water was heavily contaminated and was responsible for the spread of epidemics.
3- The sardine has already been considered a luxury product
Until the First World War, sardines were among the high-end products. It was when it was served to the soldiers in the trenches to fulfill their protein needs that it lost its letters of nobility.
4- The oyster has already been useful in politics
In ancient Greece oyster shells were used as a ballot. The Greeks made their choice.
5- Londoners have already signed a petition calling for banning coffee
In 1674, these English women stipulated that the hot beverage separated their husbands who preferred to sip it in the public places rather than to stay at home. Moreover, the women attest that the coffee reduced their virile ardor.
6- The turkey was first called "hen"
It was the Spaniards who introduced this poultry into Europe by calling it the "hen". They were convinced they were in India when they discovered Mexico.
7- The eyes of the calf have already been a gluttony
In the Middle Ages, the eyes of the calf were a very expensive luxury. That is where the expression "cost the eyes of the head" comes.
Enjoy your meal!
