Tag: Norse diet

Archaeological evidence reveals that the average Viking man was approximately 5 feet 7 inches tall, significantly taller than other Europeans of the time, such as English peasants. The popular notion of Vikings as towering giants is often exaggerated, but their superior height for the era was real, and their diet played a critical role in their stature. So, what did Vikings eat to get so tall?

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.

Despite popular imagery of feasts, the average Viking diet was a seasonal and resourceful affair, heavily dependent on farming, foraging, and fishing. They needed immense energy for their strenuous lifestyle, relying on fat and protein to survive harsh Scandinavian winters.

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.

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.

Archaeological evidence suggests that Vikings were surprisingly well-nourished, with a diet that included a rich variety of foods from farming, hunting, and foraging. So, what did a Viking diet consist of to sustain their legendary energy and strength?