10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages

According to researchers, famine is a dire phenomenon caused by the collapse of food production or distribution systems.1 When this happens, survival often depends on the ability to adapt and find unconventional food sources.

Throughout history, people facing famine have resorted to these survival foods to stave off hunger, which are as unusual as they are vital for survival.

1. Grass Peas (Lathyrus sativus)

10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages - Grass peas wc
Image Credit: Rahat Rahim, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Often used as a last-resort food during severe shortages, grass peas are a type of legume that can be a reliable “insurance crop” due to their drought resistance. They are high in protein but can contain toxins that are harmful in large quantities if not prepared correctly.

2. Bark Bread

10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages - Bark bread wc
Image Credit: Juha Kämäräinen, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Made from grinding the inner bark of trees, such as pine or birch, bark bread was a staple during extreme food shortages. It’s a resourceful way to utilize available natural resources, though it’s not very nutritious on its own and is typically combined with other ingredients.

3. Stinging Nettle (Urtica dioica)

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Image Credit: sergii.kl.ua/Deposit Photos

This wild green is rich in nutrients like vitamins A and C, iron, and calcium. Despite its sting, which is neutralized when cooked, stinging nettle has been used in soups and stews during famine conditions due to its availability and nutritional value.

4. Stirabout

10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages - Stirabout wc
Image Credit: Shisma, CC BY 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

A type of porridge made from coarse grains such as oatmeal or cornmeal, stirabout was commonly consumed in Ireland and Scotland during times of scarcity. It’s simple to prepare and provides basic sustenance.

5. Sego Lilies (Calochortus nuttallii)

10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages - Sego lilies wc
Image Credit: CanyonlandsNPS, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Native to the western United States, the bulbs of sego lilies were a crucial food source for Native Americans during periods of famine. They are starchy and were often roasted or dried for preservation.

6. Sugar Beets (Beta vulgaris)

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Image Credit: Bits And Splits/Shutterstock

While primarily grown for sugar production, sugar beets have been used as a food source during shortages. They can be boiled, roasted, or ground into a flour substitute. Their high sugar content makes them a valuable resource when other sweeteners are scarce.

7. Prairie Turnips (Psoralea esculenta)

10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages - Prairie turnips wc
Image Credit: Rheanna Kautzman, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

These tubers, native to North America, were a staple for Indigenous peoples during food shortages. They are rich in carbohydrates and can be eaten raw or cooked. They were particularly important in the Great Plains region.

8. Weeds

10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages - Weeds wc
Image Credit: Sharon Mollerus, CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Various edible weeds have been foraged during famines due to their availability and nutritional benefits. Common examples include dandelion greens, lamb’s quarters, and purslane. These plants can be used in salads, soups, or as cooked greens.

9. Hardtack

10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages - Hardtack wc
Image Credit: SKopp, CC BY-SA 3.0 via Wikimedia Commons

A type of dry, hard biscuit made from flour, water, and sometimes salt, hardtack was a common ration for soldiers and sailors (ref). Its long shelf life made it an essential food during long voyages or sieges.

10. Starvation Fruit (Morinda citrifolia)

10 Unheard-of Foods That Became Lifesavers During Famine & Shortages - Noni fruit wc
Image Credit: Amuzujoe, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons

Also known as noni fruit, Morinda citrifolia was used in desperate times for its nutritional value. Though it has a strong flavor and odor, it’s rich in vitamins and minerals and was often consumed when other food sources were unavailable.

The strange survival foods shown here not only illustrate how far people will go to stay alive but also their creativity in using whatever resources they have.

Source: 

  1. Food and Nutrition Bulletin
davin
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Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.