Prehistoric Butter Barrel Found in Gilltown Bog, Kildare

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A remarkable archaeological discovery has been made in Gilltown bog, Kildare, where an oak barrel filled with approximately 3,000-year-old butter was unearthed by Bord na Mona workers. Experts from the National Museum have hailed it as a "really fine example" of ancient preservation. The find has sparked curiosity about the longevity of butter, with discussions highlighting that its high fat content and low moisture levels inhibit the growth of molds and bacteria, potentially allowing it to remain edible, albeit rancid. The discovery has also attracted local wildlife, notably crows, upon its excavation. The find raises questions about the oldest known man-made food and the preservation methods of ancient peoples.
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3,000-year-old butter found in Kildare bog
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An oak barrel, full of butter, estimated to be roughly 3,000 years old has been found in Gilltown bog, between Timahoe and Staplestown.The amazing discovery of the barrel, which is being described by archaeology experts in the National Museum as a "really fine example" was found by two Bord na Mona workers.
Note: "It's a national treasure, you can't be going hacking bits of it off for your toast!"
Prehistoric find attracted crows when dug out of bog.
http://www.megalithic.co.uk/article.php?sid=2146413722

Would this be the oldest ever man made food found.
 
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how does butter last 3000 years? surely it would have melted or been eventually eaten by bacteria/fungus/someone with toast :-p
 
Molds, fungi and bacteria do not do well on butter because it's nearly pure fat with little moisture. The occasional addition of salt makes it even less palatable to microorganisms. It is likely to be still entirely edible, if rather rancid.
 
Parkay!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IpyEGYBqmK8
 
Now that's a great find, I'd really enjoy examining it more closely.
 

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