History Extra podcast
Ploughman's for the people: a culinary history of Britain
Feb 5, 2024
Pen Vogler, author of 'Stuffed: A History of Good Food and Hard Times in Britain', takes listeners on a culinary journey through Britain's history, exploring the marketing origins of the Ploughman's lunch and the belief that turnips were once thought to be an aphrodisiac. She also delves into the impact of enclosures on food and society, the evolution of the roast dinner, and the history of food rationing during World War I and II.
27:21
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The enclosures in Britain led to a significant change in the food landscape, forcing individuals to rely on others for food and highlighting the need for understanding responsibility in feeding those impacted.
- The Ploughman's lunch, contrary to popular belief, was actually a marketing ploy devised in the 1960s and 70s by the cheese marketing boards, serving as a reminder of how certain food traditions are influenced by marketing rather than centuries-old customs.
Deep dives
The Impact of Enclosures on British Food
The enclosures in Britain led to a significant change in the food landscape and people's ability to feed themselves. Land that was formerly available for grazing and domestic economy was enclosed, leaving many without access to essential resources. This sudden shift in domestic economy devastated individuals and forced them to rely on others for food. The loss of common land that affected commoners highlighted the need to understand who would take responsibility for feeding those impacted by the enclosures.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.
