The development of Toruń gingerbread manufacturing reached its apogee in the 17th and 18th centuries, since when Toruń has begun to be largely recognized for its gingerbread within Europe. Because of their durability, the cakes accompanied merchants on long-distance trips, even war expeditions; no significant visitor was allowed out of the city without them. The gingerbread served also medical purposes, yet most commonly it was used as an after-dinner snack or it accompanied wines, meads or vodka.