Humans have used spices for a very long time. There is evidence that they were already used as early as the Neolithic period. Later in history, spices became a luxury and even triggered wars. Here is a brief account of the fascinating history of the spice trade.
The flow of spices from one part of the world to another sparked the need to develop extensive infrastructure on land and by the coast. This began in the Roman period, extending through the middle ages.
“This is very much the start of globalisation,” says Van Der Veen. “We see that even more significantly in the medieval period.”
The demand for spices shows no sign of slowing up, as new industries are sprouting up to make use of spices in ways that go beyond flavouring food. In regions such as Europe and North America, new habits are changing the way we think about and consume spices.
