Antoine Poissonnier-Desperrières
Mémoire sur les avantages qu'il y auroit à changer absolument la nourriture des gens de mer
"Mémoire sur les avantages qu'il y auroit à changer absolument la nourriture des gens de mer" by "M. Poissonnier Desperrières" is a scientific publication likely written in the late 18th century. The work argues for a radical reform in the diet of sailors, advocating for a shift from salted meats to a primarily vegetable-based diet to combat scurvy and other maritime diseases. It presents empirical evidence that supports the health benefits of a plant-based diet for seafarers. The opening of the memoir establishes Desperrières' position on the health risks associated with the traditional diet of sailors, focusing particularly on scurvy caused by salted provisions. He presents case studies of various naval expeditions where crews fared better when consuming rice and vegetables instead of meat, suggesting that a dietary reform could improve sailor health and reduce governmental healthcare costs associated with treating marine illnesses. Furthermore, Desperrières emphasizes the economic advantages of a more sustainable supply of plant-based food, arguing that it could enhance the country's food security and reduce reliance on imports.