https://www.newscientist.com/article/2143059-viking-hordes-dined-on-frozen-norwegian-cod-shipped-to-germany/
The evidence is that DNA from cod found at Haithabu/Hedeby apparently identifies the fish as coming from the Arctic. The suggestion that there was some sort of bulk trade in dried/smoked/frozen cod seems reasonable, the leap to freeze-drying perhaps a step too far?
Might they be confusing freeze-drying with wind-drying? Wind drying was quite widespread for the preparation of numerous regional specialities.
Quote from: Patrick Waterson on August 14, 2017, 09:19:35 PM
Might they be confusing freeze-drying with wind-drying? Wind drying was quite widespread for the preparation of numerous regional specialities.
I think the implication is that if you hang your cod up in the Arctic and your winds are sub-zero, wind-drying and freeze-drying are much the same thing.
Another report here (http://www.medievalists.net/2017/08/dna-samples-reveal-viking-age-fish-trade/). This one just mentions dried cod.
And is also less dogmatic about the bulk-trading idea. Generally more cautious overall.