Here's how it worked:
* Tasting First: The royal taster would consume a small portion of the monarch's food and drink before it was presented.
* Observation Period: The taster would then be observed for any signs of illness or poisoning for a period of time.
* Safety Assurance: If the taster remained healthy, it was considered safe for the monarch to consume the food or drink.
Historically:
This practice was prevalent in ancient times and the medieval period. It was a particularly important role in societies where political rivals often resorted to poisoning as a means of gaining power.
Modern Times:
While royal tasters are no longer a common practice, the tradition highlights the historical significance of food safety and the dangers monarchs faced in the past.