Dan Snow's History Hit The Voyage That Changed the Way We Eat
Jul 23, 2024
Discover the groundbreaking voyage of SS Dunedin in 1882 that revolutionized food transportation using Bell-Coleman refrigeration technology. Learn about the challenges faced at sea and the impact on global trade and technology. Explore the history of the Dunedin ship and Captain John Whitson's bravery in ensuring the safe delivery of cargo.
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Mysterious Disappearances
- In 1890, two ships, the Dunedin and the Marlborough, vanished on voyages from New Zealand to Britain.
- Theories about their fate included icebergs and crews of skeletons, capturing the Victorian imagination.
Food Preservation History
- Preserving food for long journeys isn't new; methods like drying and fermenting have existed for millennia.
- Canning, developed in the 19th century, was initially expensive and seen as low quality, hindering wider adoption.
Early Refrigeration Attempts
- In 1875, frozen meat was successfully shipped to Britain from America using a 'cold bank' with ice and fans.
- A French ship, the Paraguay, successfully transported frozen carcasses using ammonia compression in 1878.