First published: 07/08/2024
In a Buzzfeed article highlighting the r/badwomensanatomy subreddit, a space where people share examples of how incredibly clueless men can be about the female body, one quote stands out: "I work in food service and I've had multiple older male chefs ask me if I'm on my period before letting me make mayonnaise, because they think menstruation breaks emulsions." This quote, both hilarious and worrying, exemplifies a pervasive myth that menstruation can disrupt the emulsification process in cooking.
Historical Context of Menstrual Superstitions
This strange belief is not a modern invention but rather a relic of ancient superstitions about menstruation. Historically, menstruation was often viewed with a mix of fear and reverence, leading to a variety of myths and misconceptions:
1. Ancient Beliefs:
- In many ancient cultures, menstrual blood was considered both powerful and potentially dangerous. The Greek physician Hippocrates (c. 460 – c. 370 BC) and his contemporaries believed menstrual blood could spoil food and drink due to its perceived toxicity.
2. Medieval and Early Modern Europe:
- During medieval times, menstruating women were often seen as impure. Superstitions suggested that they could sour wine, cause crops to wither, and spoil food simply by touching it. These beliefs persisted into the 17th and 18th centuries, where it was thought that a menstruating woman’s touch could prevent dough from rising or cause beer to go flat.
3. Modern Folklore:
- Despite scientific advancements, some of these old superstitions have lingered. The idea that menstruation can affect cooking processes, such as the emulsification of mayonnaise, is a modern reflection of these ancient beliefs.
The Myth in Food Service
In certain kitchens, particularly those dominated by traditional practices and male chefs, these superstitions continue to persist. The belief that menstruation might "break emulsions" like mayonnaise is an example of how outdated and scientifically baseless ideas can endure in professional environments.
Scientific Perspective
From a scientific standpoint, there is no evidence to support the notion that menstruation can affect emulsification or any other cooking processes. Emulsification is a chemical process that involves the interaction of molecules, and it is not influenced by the hormonal changes associated with menstruation. The belief is rooted purely in superstition and ignorance.
The Importance of Dispelling Myths
The continuation of such myths in professional settings highlights the need for better education and awareness about menstruation and women's health. Myths like these not only perpetuate gender stereotypes but also contribute to a work environment that can be discriminatory and unwelcoming for women.
Conclusion
The myth that menstruation can break emulsions like mayonnaise originates from ancient and medieval superstitions about the impurity and power of menstrual blood. These beliefs have been handed down through generations and, surprisingly, persist in some modern contexts. By understanding the origins of these myths and promoting scientific literacy, we can work towards a more informed and equitable society, where women are not subjected to baseless and discriminatory practices in their professional lives.
Comments