Prehistoric Butter Barrel Found in Gilltown Bog, Kildare

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A 3,000-year-old oak barrel filled with butter has been discovered in Gilltown bog, Kildare, by Bord na Mona workers. Archaeology experts from the National Museum describe it as a "really fine example" of prehistoric preservation. The butter's longevity is attributed to its high fat content and low moisture, which inhibit microbial growth, making it potentially edible despite being rancid. This find raises questions about the preservation of ancient food items and their historical significance.

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3,000-year-old butter found in Kildare bog
Subject: Recent Discoveries

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.
 
Science news on Phys.org
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.