The evolution of ice cream

It’s estimated ice cream's origins go back as early as the second century BC. Alexander the Great also enjoyed snow and ice flavored with honey and nectar in the third century BC. Not to be left out, Nero Claudius Caesar (AD 54-86) often sent runners into the mountains for snow, which was then flavoured with fruits and juices. More than a thousand years later, Marco Polo returned to Italy from the Far East with a recipe closely resembling what we call sherbet. Historians estimate this recipe evolved into ice cream sometime in the 16th century. In the 17^th century the English king, Charles I, dined regularly on "cream ice". And in North America? Well, we first had some in about 1744, but only if you were well-to-do.

Food Fact brought to you by Farm Credit Canada.

Source: International Dairy Foods Association website: http://www.idfa.org/facts/icmonth/page7.cfm

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