Even the ancient Nubians and Egyptians loved a good drink. Until recently when antibiotics were discovered in the bones of ancient Sudanese Nubians who lived over 2,000 years ago, we never knew just how good it was. While the staples of the Egyptian diet were bread and beer with evidence that both they and the ancient Nubians consumed leafy vegetables, grain, fruits, and fish, Nubian beer was laced with tetracycline, an antibiotic found in soil bacteria that thrives in warm, arid climates. In 2014, a Japanese team uncovered the tomb of an ancient Egyptian beer maker complete with colored frescoes depicting the process of its production and use in daily life. For the Nubian beer, researchers believe it was developed purposely for its antibiotic properties and found the tetracycline in the ancient bones of Nubians as young as 4 years old. The Nubian’s tetracycline-laced beer would have contained a golden-colored mass of bacteria floating on top, making it just as appealing as the taste. It’s not a surprise this would appeal to a culture known for its love and use of gold deposits prevalent on their land. I’ll drink to that!
For more information see: https://www.wired.com/2010/09/antibiotic-beer/ and https://www.cnn.com/2014/01/20/world/meast/egypt-ancient-beer-brewer-tomb/index.html
Photo credit: CNN