Category: Ancient diets

Archaeological finds, such as those at the Oseberg burial site, confirm that apples were indeed part of the Norse diet. But apples were just one of many fruits enjoyed by these seafarers and farmers. The question of what fruits did the Norse eat reveals a diet rich in foraged berries and some cultivated orchard fruits, providing essential vitamins and flavors to their meals.

According to the Gospels of Matthew and Mark, John the Baptist’s food was explicitly noted as “locusts and wild honey”. This detail is significant not just for its unusual nature, but also for what it reveals about John's prophetic role, his ascetic lifestyle in the wilderness, and his message to a generation of Israelites.

Based on archaeological evidence, early hunter-gatherer diets were much more varied and plant-rich than traditionally portrayed, often including wild grains and legumes. This discovery leads many to ask: what was the healthiest ancient diet, and what lessons can we apply today?

According to the Book of Genesis, Abraham famously prepared a feast for three divine visitors, offering a rich meal of milk, curds, and a fattened calf. This specific account, along with a knowledge of ancient Near Eastern life, offers valuable insight into what kind of food did Abraham eat.

While popular culture often depicts Vikings with horns of mead, archaeological and textual evidence shows that milk and its products were a cornerstone of their diet. This nutrient-dense staple, sourced from cows, goats, and sheep, was vital for survival in the harsh Scandinavian climate.