Researchers Find 7,200-Year-Old Cheese In Ancient Pottery From Dalmatian Coast

[Judi Lynn]

3. Evidence of 7,200-year-old cheese-making found on the Dalmatian Coast

A'ndrea Elyse Messer
September 5, 2018

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Analysis of fatty residue in pottery from the Dalmatian Coast of Croatia revealed evidence of fermented dairy products — soft cheeses and yogurts — from about 7,200 years ago, according to an international team of researchers.

"This pushes back cheese-making by 4,000 years," said Sarah B. McClure, associate professor of anthropology.

The presence of milk in pottery in this area is seen as early as 7,700 years ago, 500 years earlier than fermented products, said the researchers. DNA analysis of the populations in this area indicate that the adults were lactose-intolerant, but the children remained able to consume milk comfortably up to the age of ten.

"First, we have milking around, and it was probably geared for kids because it is a good source of hydration and is relatively pathogen-free," said McClure. "It wouldn't be a surprise for people to give children milk from another mammal."

More:
https://news.psu.edu/story/534928/2018/09/05/research/evidence-7200-year-old-cheese-making-found-dalmatian-coast