Synaptic Snaps, Crackles & Pops

Say cheese! [Journalistic Intentions, Rd. 6]

4th Prompt:


The video launched from this prompt's link told me a lot I didn't know about the history of cheese making. It seems our Neolithic ancestors figured out / stumbled upon the process for using partially soured milk to create a new, durable food source about 10,000 years ago (no, that is not a misplaced comma plus an extra zero or two). It's interesting how cheese became a commonplace yet valuable commodity, and cheesemaking such a sought-after skill, that at least one area famous for its cheesemaking ability was invaded.

I especially found interesting the fact that Roman soldiers regularly subsisted on caseus aridus, or dry cheese. This explains the ubiquitous presence of tins of either cheese or cheese spread in every C-Ration I ever ate during my time in the Army. It also explains the 'Best by' dates on packages of macaroni and cheese. It's for the pasta - the cheese will be good forever.