Food life history and cold storage in Greater Beringia. Part I: Preliminary interdisciplinary investigation

Abstract

Cold storage of food using a natural cold environment (i.e., frozen ground, ice, snow, and freezing air) is globally found to be compatible with the local environment, and within the cultural traditions of communities. Our interdisciplinary project, focusing on four areas from Beringia (Alaska and easternmost Siberia) to the middle latitudes (Mongolia and Japan) of the northern hemisphere, aims to 1) document the variations and commonalities in the history, present situations, and future concerns of cold storage facilities, 2) review the roles and functionalities of the practice through the “Food Life History” concept, a new framework to address local food issues in a global context on the history of interactions between humanity and the environment, and 3) co-produce knowledge and strategies to facilitate cold storage practices for local adaptation to environmental and economic challenges. In this preliminary study conducted from 2021 to 2023, we initiated communication with local leaders and knowledge-bearers, examined current conditions, and installed temperature monitors in cold storage structures where available. The results illustrate the presence of practices of various types, specifications, and conditions, commonly challenged by environmental changes both natural (e.g., permafrost thawing and ground wetting) and social (e.g., modern technologies, education, and economy).