Ancient Egypt’s fascination with preparing for the afterlife extended beyond humans to include meat mummies, as recent studies reveal. These “meat mummies” were meticulously preserved with elaborate balms and treatments, ensuring they could sustain royalty even in eternity.
The tradition of mummifying meat dates back over 5000 years, with examples found in various tombs across Egypt. Recent analyses focused on samples dating between 1386 BC and 948 BC, discovered in the tombs of high-status individuals like Egyptian nobles and priests.
Researchers, using advanced chemical analysis, identified the preservation methods used on these meat mummies. For instance, animal fat and resin from Pistacia trees, a luxury item in ancient Egypt, were found to coat the bandages of these preserved meats. This treatment aimed not only to extend the meat’s shelf life beyond the typical decay rate in Egypt’s climate but also reflected the high regard for royal sustenance in the afterlife.
The findings shed light on ancient Egyptian burial customs, demonstrating the meticulous care taken to ensure that the departed were provisioned with the best even beyond death. The study, published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, underscores the cultural and ritualistic significance of meat mummification in ancient Egyptian society.
