What lengths would you go to in order to keep your milk fresh? Would you even consider dropping frogs into milk in order to make it last a bit longer?
According to ancient Russian folklore, that was once a common practice before the advent of modern refrigeration, highlighting the lengths people went to preserve their dairy in times past, according to this Daily Meal post.
Though it seems totally bizarre, there is actually some scientific evidence to back up this practice. The first line of defence in all amphibians against bacteria and microorganisms is the secretion through their skin of antimicrobial substances called peptides.
When the skin of the Russian brown frog (the species most commonly used in milk) was studied, scientists discovered 21 substances with antibiotic properties, some of which were as potent against salmonella and staph bacteria as prescription antibiotics.
There you have it!
It’s important to note, however, that there is however no historical evidence to suggest that humans ever used live frogs in their milk to keep it fresh. Such practices would have posed health risks and are not documented in credible historical records.
Better tricks to keep milk fresh
To keep milk fresh, store it promptly in the refrigerator at or below 4°C (39°F), ideally in the main body rather than the door to maintain a consistent temperature. Keep the container tightly sealed to prevent absorption of other odors and contamination. Always check the expiration date before purchasing and consume milk within a few days of opening. If you won’t use it quickly, consider freezing it for longer preservation, though this may alter the texture slightly. Proper storage and handling are key to maintaining milk’s freshness and safety.