Scientists In Siberia Create Lichen Chocolate, Moss Loaf

Researchers at an Arctic lab in northern Russia have developed a series of "quick and easy meals" using dried bread and locally available lichen and moss, according to The BBC. During an official tasting, the scientists reportedly told Governor Kobylkin of the Yamal-Nenets Autonomous Area, "Just add hot water, and your lunch is ready in three minutes."

The Arctic Studies Centre notes that the nutrient-rich moss and lichen may particularly benefit the indigenous Nenets people of the region, who were once a nomads. Having settled and adopted a more traditional Russian diet, the Nenets have become susceptible to health issues like heart disease, diabetes, and atherosclerosis. The population of the Autonomous Region of northern Siberia is approximately half a million, of which the Nenets make up about 40,000, reports The BBC. 

During the televised tasting on Vesti Yamal TV, the laboratory's deputy director, Alexander Lobanov debuted the team's recent developments, including lichen chocolate, moss candies, and an herb loaf with moss and lichen. 

Karen Lo is an associate editor at The Daily Meal. Follow her on Twitter @appleplexy.