5 Strange and Weird Facts About Beer: From Ancient Times to Modern Day Brews

Ah, beer! This timeless beverage has been enjoyed by countless generations, from ancient civilizations to modern-day enthusiasts. It has evolved, diversified and been perfected over millennia. But beyond the well-known stories of its origin and its role in social gatherings, there are some rather peculiar facts about beer that many might find surprising.

Let's delve into the world of beer and explore some of its strangest and most intriguing fun facts.

Ancient Prescription for Health

Think beer is just a drink of leisure? Think again! The ancient Sumerians (circa 4000 B.C.) in Mesopotamia revered beer so much that they believed it had medicinal properties. In fact, one of the world's oldest written recipes is a hymn to Ninkasi, the Sumerian goddess of beer. This hymn, inscribed on a clay tablet, was both a song of praise and a method for brewing beer. The Sumerians consumed this beer with straws to avoid the solid by-products that settled at the bottom as is common with beer mugs and glasses.

Moreover, some ancient Egyptian texts recommended beer for over 100 different health conditions, including digestive issues and infections. While we don't advocate using beer as a remedy today, it's fascinating to think of it as ancient medicine.

The Great Beer Flood of London

While it might sound like the dream of many a beer lover, the London Beer Flood of 1814 was no laughing matter. On October 17 of that year, a massive vat containing over 135,000 gallons of beer at the Meux and Co. Brewery burst. This caused other vats in the same facility to rupture in a domino effect. The result? A tidal wave of beer flooded the streets of the St. Giles district in London.

Sadly, this flood claimed the lives of eight people and destroyed multiple homes and buildings. It's a tragic reminder of the unpredictability of industrial accidents, even when the substance involved is something as benign as beer.

Beer Soup for Breakfast?

If you've ever been ridiculed for wanting a cold brew in the morning, just remember: you're merely honoring tradition. In medieval Europe, beer soup was a common breakfast dish. This concoction was made by pouring beer over a chunk of bread, sometimes with added ingredients for flavor and substance.

Given that the beer of those times was more nutritious and less alcoholic than today's versions, it provided a hearty start to the day, especially during cold months. It might not replace your morning coffee or tea anytime soon, but beer soup is an intriguing glimpse into the culinary practices of yore. It could even be a way to help avoid that beer belly.

The Fear of Empty Beer Glasses

Ever felt a pang of anxiety as your beer supply dwindles? There's a word for that! "Cenosillicaphobia" is the (somewhat tongue-in-cheek) term for the fear of an empty beer glass. While it's not recognized as an official phobia, it's a fun term that resonates with anyone who has ever eagerly anticipated their next pint while staring at the bottom of their current one.

Next time you're savoring a beer mug with friends, drop this term and impress them with your knowledge (or make them chuckle).

The World’s Strongest Beer

Modern brewers, always pushing the envelope, have engaged in an arms race to create the world's strongest beer. The current record holder is "Snake Venom" brewed by Brewmeister in Scotland, boasting an ABV (alcohol by volume) of 67.5%. For context, most regular beers hover around 4-7% ABV. With a potency that rivals many spirits, Snake Venom should be sipped carefully, in moderation.

It's a testament to the versatility and adaptability of beer. From light, refreshing pilsners to these high-octane brews, there's a beer out there for every palate and preference.

In Conclusion

Beer has a rich tapestry of history, interwoven with fascinating tales that span millennia. From its ancient medicinal uses to the modern pursuit of the most potent brews, beer continues to surprise and intrigue. As you lift your next pint, take a moment to appreciate the strange and wonderful journey of this age-old beverage. Cheers!