Facts on Food in the Middle Ages

Food has changed a lot over time. Throughout history, different cultures have had completely different ways of getting, preparing and storing food. During the Middle Ages, food was served plentifully and was prepared and served much differently than in many of today's societies.

Medieval Feasting

• Feasts were an important part of everyday life for affluent people living in the Middle Ages. Feasting was a way many members of society used to boast of their wealth, as those who didn't have much money couldn't afford such extravagance. For those who could afford it, everything was an occasion to feast. Weddings, funerals, engagements -- any of these events might have been accompanied by a lavish spread of food for guests.

Salt Preservation

• Salt and saline baths were used to store and preserve meat for extended periods of time. While this would usually make for a very salty meal, spices were used to help mask the saline taste in meat that had been stored for a long while.

Dairy and the Rich

• Dairy products, such as cream, milk and butter, were expensive commodities during the Middle Ages, according to Medieval Period. For this reason, dairy products were not a staple in the average Middle Ages meal.

Medieval Spices

• After the Crusades and the mingling of different cultures, the use of herbs and spices became an important staple in the food of the Middle Ages. Pepper was one of the most desired spices, but it was also very expensive. Salt, ginger, cloves, cinnamon and nutmeg were also heavily traded during this time period.

Middle Ages Meat

• Pigs, cows, sheep, chicken and geese were the chief animals slaughtered for meat during the Middle Ages. Livestock would be fed and raised throughout the year and often slaughtered in the fall for curing and preservation during the winter for use throughout the year.