From fermented fish to tomato: the dark evolution of ketchup

The Secret History of the World's Most Popular Sauce · 8:15 · Video: Taste Archive · Watch at the source

In short: Ketchup was not always the red condiment we know today. This video explores its strange origins as a feared, fermented fish sauce and its long journey toward becoming a global staple.

The history of ketchup is characterized by radical transformations in both ingredients and public perception. It began as an ancient concoction made from fermented fish, which was once regarded with suspicion and even feared as a literal poison. Over centuries, the sauce underwent significant changes to become the modern red variety.

The video examines how shifts in consumption habits and early packaging influenced the product's development. By tracing these bizarre twists—from its status as a toxic substance to a household favorite—the narrative provides a unique perspective on how human dietary habits evolve over time.

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