The idea of putting frogs into milk to keep it fresh may sound strange and even alarming, but in reality, this practice has its roots in the rich folklore of Russia.
The Preservative Power of Frogs from a Scientific Perspective
In 2012, scientists in Moscow studied the species Rana temporaria, commonly known as the European common frog, and discovered 76 antibacterial peptides in the secretions of this species. These peptides have the ability to inhibit the growth of certain bacteria. This breakthrough has advanced medical research, especially as the world faces antibiotic resistance issues. However, this discovery also harkens back to an ancient folk belief: Russians believed that placing frogs in milk could help preserve it for longer.
According to the scientists, if frogs secrete antibacterial substances, putting them in milk could indeed help reduce bacterial growth. However, experts do not recommend this practice; instead, they are studying the compounds that frogs secrete for their potential applications in food preservation and medicine.
Chemist A.T. Lebedev at Moscow University researched and discovered antibacterial chemicals on the skin of the Russian Brown frog that make milk less susceptible to bacterial effects. This research was published in the American Chemical Society’s Journal of Proteome Research.
The Story of Food Preservation Before Refrigerators
In the past, especially in cold climates like Russia, preserving milk was no small challenge. Although low outside temperatures could help extend the shelf life of milk, bacteria could still grow at room temperature and spoil the milk quickly, often within one to two days. Therefore, farmers used methods such as salting and fermentation to preserve food, but these methods were difficult to apply to milk.
The use of frogs may have originated from farmers accidentally noticing that frogs found near milk often kept it fresh. Alternatively, the inherently “cool” nature of frogs may have inspired them to think that frogs could preserve milk.
It can be said that the refrigerator is one of humanity’s greatest inventions. With this nearly human-height box, it has replaced nearly all the economically and spatially costly methods of food preservation. In ancient times, Russians dropped frogs into milk barrels to prevent spoilage when exposed to air.
The Symbolism of Frogs in Russian Folklore
In Russian folklore, frogs are not just animals; they also carry significant symbolism and magical connotations. The story of two frogs falling into a bucket of milk is a well-known example. One frog struggled to swim in the milk until it eventually churned into butter, allowing it to leap out. This tale connects frogs with the image of milk, emphasizing their resilience and tenacity.
Additionally, the character Babushka-Lyagushka-Shakusha – a “frog-jumping grandmother” – appears in Russian folklore with a story related to milk. This tale intertwines elements of magic and reality, creating an image of frogs that is both friendly and enchanting.
Amphibians secrete antibacterial chemicals called peptides through their skin, helping them fend off bacterial growth in moist environments.
Historical Documentation and Accidental Beliefs
Aside from folklore, the belief in using frogs to preserve milk may also stem from practical experiences. A letter to the editor of the New York Times in 1854 recounts a farmer who accidentally discovered that frogs sometimes fell into his milk cans while he soaked them in a cold stream to keep them cool. Although unintentional, when he removed the frogs, he found that the milk remained drinkable, leading to the idea that frogs could help preserve milk. This experience seems to have evolved into a common belief over time.
In previous studies, scientists discovered 21 antibiotic and antibacterial compounds on frog skin. However, using modern techniques, Mr. Lebedev and his colleagues identified an additional 76 compounds with similar effects.
The Legacy of a Legend
Today, the story of using frogs to preserve milk may seem odd, but it serves as a vivid example of how past generations combined experience with belief and folk traditions. While scientific explanations for the antibacterial properties of frog secretions may be lacking, farmers of old found a “natural partner” in their quest for food preservation.
Ultimately, can a frog truly keep milk from spoiling? Modern research suggests there may be truth in the legend, at least at the molecular level. However, in today’s world, milk preservation requires modern methods like refrigeration rather than relying on frogs. Nevertheless, this story remains a testament to the imagination and creativity of the ancients, blending science, history, and culture into a unique folk remedy.
