What Surprising Ingredient Was Once Used to Preserve Food in Ancient Times?

In ancient times, particularly during the Roman Empire, one of the most surprising ingredients used for food preservation was urine. The ammonia in urine acted as a natural disinfectant and preservative, making it effective for curing meats and even cleaning textiles. Roman soldiers would often use stale urine to clean their togas, as it was believed to whiten the fabric. Additionally, urine was collected in public latrines and sold to fullers for washing and dyeing cloth. This unusual method highlights the resourcefulness of ancient cultures in their quest to extend the shelf life of food and maintain hygiene, illustrating how our ancestors made the most of available resources long before the advent of modern preservation techniques.