Archaeologists in Egypt have made an exciting discovery – a 3,600-year-old piece of cheese! The ancient cheese was found in the tomb of Ptahmes, a high-ranking Egyptian official, in the Saqqara necropolis near Cairo. This cheese is believed to be the oldest ever found and provides new insights into the culinary practices of ancient Egypt.
The cheese was discovered in a broken clay jar, along with other food items such as bread and meat. Analysis of the cheese revealed that it was made from a mixture of cow milk and sheep or goat milk. The presence of these ingredients suggests that the ancient Egyptians were skilled in dairy production and agriculture, and that they had a diverse diet.
Cheese making has a long history in Egypt, with evidence of the practice dating back thousands of years. The discovery of this ancient cheese provides valuable information about the food habits of the ancient Egyptians, shedding light on their culinary preferences and technological advancements in food production.
This finding adds to the growing body of evidence that ancient Egyptians had sophisticated culinary skills and a deep knowledge of food preservation techniques. The discovery of the cheese in Ptahmes’ tomb highlights the importance of food offerings in ancient Egyptian burial practices, as it was believed that food and drink were essential for the deceased to sustain themselves in the afterlife.
Overall, this discovery of a 3,600-year-old piece of cheese in Egypt offers a fascinating glimpse into the culinary traditions of ancient civilizations and underscores the enduring importance of food in human culture. It provides a unique opportunity for researchers to further explore the ancient Egyptian diet and culinary practices, enriching our understanding of this ancient civilization.
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