The image above is a map I created some years ago to illustrate the diversity and abundance of fermentation practices around the world. I decided to turn it into an interactive map, because, well, maps are cool! This is a work in progress, because the more fermented foods I add to the map, the more I discover, so who knows where it will end!
From this map we can really understand the importance of food fermentation in literally every culture in the world, and while bacteria are sometimes different, the processes are pretty similar, from Peru to Nepal. People everywhere were faced with the same conundrum: how to prevent food spoilage? (well, until someone invented the refrigerator, at least). I find this very fascinating.
You can explore the map below on Google Maps – if you hover over one pin, you should see the photo of the food and a brief introduction, to know more just click on that and you will be redirected on the wikipedia pages.
I hope that you all get inspired to start your own fermentation projects!