How did peasants preserve their food?

- Drying: Drying is one of the oldest and simplest methods of preserving food. Peasants would hang fruits, vegetables, and meats in the sun or over a fire to remove moisture. This process prevented spoilage by preventing bacteria from growing.

- Salting: Salting is another traditional method of preserving food. Peasants would rub meat, fish, and vegetables with salt, which draws moisture out of the food and inhibits bacterial growth.

- Smoking: Smoking is a method of preserving food by exposing it to smoke from a fire. The smoke contains chemicals that kill bacteria and give the food a distinctive flavor.

- Pickling: Pickling is a process of preserving food in a solution of vinegar or brine. The acid in the vinegar or brine prevents bacterial growth.

- Fermenting: Fermenting is a process of preserving food by allowing it to sit in a warm, moist environment until beneficial bacteria grow. The bacteria produce lactic acid, which inhibits bacterial growth. Some examples of fermented foods include yogurt, sauerkraut, and kimchi.

- Canning: Canning is a process of preserving food by heating it in a sealed container. This process kills bacteria and creates a vacuum seal, which prevents new bacteria from entering the container.

- Freezing: Freezing is a modern method of preserving food by storing it at very low temperatures. This process prevents bacterial growth.