Ever heard of the Russian tradition of placing a frog in milk to keep it fresh? Turns out, this old practice has a fascinating scientific explanation!
Why did it work?
Amphibians like frogs secrete antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) through their skin. These compounds act as a natural defense system, protecting them from bacteria and fungi in their moist environments.
What does science say?
Researchers studying the Russian Brown Frog (Rana temporaria) identified 21 bioactive substances and later discovered 76 additional peptides with antibiotic properties.
Some peptides were as effective as prescription antibiotics against pathogens like Salmonella and Staphylococcus.
Among these, Brevinin 1Tb stands out for its strong antibacterial action. Another group, temporins, adds to this powerful antimicrobial shield.
The origins of the story about using frogs to preserve milk are unclear, but it’s possible that it arose from folk tales. People might have shared stories about using frogs to preserve milk based on observations or experiences. The practice might have been used in specific regions or communities, but it’s not a widely documented or recognized tradition.
This unusual method of preserving milk originated in Russia and Finland. In colder climates like Russia, the cold temperatures would have helped to slow down bacterial growth, making the frog method potentially less necessary. However, during periods of warmer temperatures or “thaw,” the frog’s antimicrobial properties might have been more beneficial in helping to preserve the milk.
{ In regions with cold climates like Russia, a thaw would refer to a period of warmer temperatures when snow and ice melt, potentially affecting food storage and preservation.}
Russians and Finland peoples used the European Common Frog or Russian Brown Frog (Rana temporaria) to preserve milk. This species’ skin secretions contain antimicrobial peptides, such as Brevinin 1Tb, which can inhibit bacterial growth and help keep milk fresh.
With modern refrigeration and preservation methods, using frogs to preserve milk is no longer necessary.
We must look to nature and history for innovative solutions in modern medicine.
We should not dismissed traditional practices too quickly.
Sometimes, hidden in them are the keys to revolutionary science.
