Prehistoric Butter Barrel Found in Gilltown Bog, Kildare

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Discussion Overview

The thread discusses the discovery of a 3,000-year-old oak barrel filled with butter found in Gilltown bog, Kildare. Participants explore the implications of this find, including its preservation and potential significance as a historical artifact.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions how butter could last for 3,000 years, suggesting it would typically melt or be consumed by microorganisms.
  • Another participant argues that molds, fungi, and bacteria struggle to survive on butter due to its high fat content and low moisture, suggesting it may still be edible, albeit rancid.
  • A participant expresses interest in examining the find more closely, indicating its potential value for study.
  • Some participants make humorous remarks about the butter, including references to its texture and a comparison to adipocere, a waxy substance formed during decomposition.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the preservation of the butter, with some believing it could remain edible while others question the longevity of such a food item. The discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of the find.

Contextual Notes

Some assumptions about the conditions of preservation and the effects of environmental factors on the butter's longevity are not fully explored.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in archaeology, food preservation, historical artifacts, and ancient food practices may find this discussion relevant.

wolram
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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.