Part 2/5:
Historically, hard tack was crafted to withstand the harsh conditions of shipboard life. Sailors and soldiers relied on its durability, as it could be stored for months, if not years, without developing mold or going bad. However, the dry nature of hard tack presented a unique challenge: its extreme hardness made it nearly impossible to consume without proper preparation. Taking a bite out of this bread could result in damaged teeth, a risk few were willing to take on board a ship with limited medical resources.