Google has created a Doodle honour for Swedish scientist Eva Ekeblad who would be celebrating her 293rd birthday today. Born in the 18th century, Ekeblad researched multiple uses for plants.
In 1746, Eva wrote to the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences on her discoveries, that was how to make flour and alcohol out of potatoes. Her work paved the way for gluten-free baking and alcohols such as potato wine and vodka.
Eva’s work made potatoes a staple food in Sweden. The finding also increased the supply of wheat, rye and barley, helping reduce the frequency of famine.
For her contributions, she was elected to Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences in 1748. She became the first woman to receive the honour. The honour was not bestowed on another woman for another 203 years.
However, there are no records of her participation in the meetings of the Academy. In 1751, the Academy came to refer to her as an honorary rather than a full member, as the statutes confined membership to men.
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