Category: Viking history

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.

Archaeological evidence from cesspits and graves, combined with information from the Norse sagas, indicates that the Viking diet was far more varied and robust than typically portrayed. The diet was rich in meat, fish, dairy, and a surprisingly wide array of grains, vegetables, fruits, and foraged plants.

Archaeological evidence and historical texts reveal that Vikings typically ate only two meals a day, with breakfast, or *dagmal*, being the first. The answer to what food did the Vikings eat for breakfast isn't a simple one, as it depended heavily on season and social standing.

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.

While modern people fret over vitamin D deficiency, the Vikings had an innate solution, relying on a nutrient-rich diet and smart cultural practices to secure their supply. So, how did Vikings get vitamin D without modern supplements or scientific understanding?