What did people eat on ships besids bread?

People on ships ate a variety of foods besides bread, though the exact diet varied greatly depending on the time period, type of ship, and the voyage's length and destination. Here's a glimpse:

Common staples:

* Dried and salted meats: Beef, pork, and fish were often salted or dried to preserve them for long journeys.

* Hardtack: A hard, unleavened biscuit, essentially a more durable form of bread.

* Oatmeal: A hearty, filling porridge.

* Beans: Dried beans, like navy beans, were a common source of protein and fiber.

* Cheese: A staple, often hard and salty for preservation.

* Fruit: Dried or preserved fruits, like prunes, dates, and raisins, provided sweetness and nutrients.

* Pickles and Relishes: Fermented foods like pickles helped to maintain a balanced diet.

More diverse options (depending on the voyage):

* Fresh produce: Ships could carry fresh vegetables and fruits for shorter voyages.

* Fish: Freshly caught fish was a common food source on voyages, especially for sailors.

* Meat: On longer voyages, livestock might be brought aboard for fresh meat, though this was less common.

* Rice: Rice was a staple in some cultures and regions, but less common on European ships.

* Spices: Spices like pepper and cinnamon were used to flavor food and preserve it.

Important note: The quality and variety of food on ships depended heavily on the ship's size, the duration of the journey, and the ship's resources. The diet of sailors on long voyages was often meager and monotonous, lacking essential vitamins and minerals. This led to a high incidence of scurvy, a vitamin C deficiency, which was a major health problem until the discovery of the benefits of citrus fruits.

Let me know if you'd like to delve deeper into the dietary aspects of a specific type of voyage, such as those taken by explorers, merchants, or the navy.