Discover your next big idea at PACK EXPO Las Vegas this September
Experience a breakthrough in packaging & processing and transform your business with solutions from 2,300 suppliers spanning all industries.
REGISTER NOW & SAVE

The wrap up: Now that's l-o-n-g shelf life

British archeologists have unearthed an ancient two-piece metal canister that’s believed to hold a beauty ointment that traces back to the Roman period in London, A.D. 43 to 410, according to a recent report in National Geographic.

When opened, the canister revealed a cream believed to be made up of a mixture of animal fat and a flour-like starch. Although strongly smelling of sulphur and old cheese, the contents were intact and included a smear across the inside of the lid that held the fingerprints of possibly the last user. Similar--but empty containers--have turned up before in excavations from that Roman period.

The container was discovered at Southwark, an area of London on the south bank of the Thames. In preparation for new construction at Tabard Square, a survey uncovered the remains of a Roman-Celtic temple, the first-ever found in London. The area is known to be an important part of the Roman city of Londinium, and archeological surveys are common before new construction is begun.

Now turned over to the Museum of London, the artifact is thought to be the only surviving example of cosmetics from that era. Although the supplier of the canister could not be determined, the magazine did report the contents were likely past its freshness date.

Researched List: Engineering Services Firms
Looking for engineering services? Our curated list features 100+ companies specializing in civil, process, structural, and electrical engineering. Many also offer construction, design, and architecture services. Download to access company names, markets served, key services, contact information, and more!
Download Now
Researched List: Engineering Services Firms
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability
The road ahead for CPGs in 2025 and beyond—<i>Packaging World</i> editors review key findings from a survey of 88 brand owners, CPG, and FMCG readers.
Download Now
Annual Outlook Report: Sustainability