Food Globalization in the Early Modern Period: Isotopic Evidence of Maize Introduction and Dietary Diversification on Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain (16th–18th CE)

Abstract

Objectives

The European expansion of the Early Modern period led to unparalleled intercontinental plant and animal translocations. This study explores the dietary changes resulting from the movement of plants and animals, such as maize, into local diets beyond the Americas. The analysis focuses on the Canary Islands (Spain), which play a key role in the transatlantic trade network linking Europe, Africa, and America.

Materials and Methods

In this study, stable isotope dietary (δ¹³C_collagen, δ¹⁵N_collagen, and δ¹³C_enamel) analyses of 66 human and 42 terrestrial animal samples from several sites in Gran Canaria, dated between the 16th and 18th centuries, were used to trace the introduction of nonnative C4 plants into the diet. Additionally, Bayesian modeling through FRUITS is applied to deepen our understanding of this dietary transition. This approach provides an evolutionary perspective on changes in dietary practices over time.

Results

The isotopic data indicate a gradual increase in C4 plant consumption and evidence of manuring in cultivated fields from the 16th to the 18th centuries. This dietary shift, characterized by the introduction of new foodstuffs, is reflected in less negative carbon and elevated nitrogen isotope values in both human (δ¹³C_collagen, δ¹⁵N_collagen, and δ¹³C_enamel) and animal samples (δ¹³C_collagen and δ¹⁵N_collagen).

Discussion

The findings suggest the slow yet progressive incorporation of C4 plants, most likely maize, into the local food system, which coincides with the introduction of other new crops, livestock, and innovative agricultural techniques such as manuring. This study thus offers a singular lens through which to view these early dietary shifts and the extensive effects of the global spread of crops and animals beyond their native territories.