The Netherlands is Europe’s most densely populated country; home to 16+ million people and occupies an area of 41,160 square kilometres. During the 17th century, due to their strong merchant marine, people of Netherlands had access to food from around the world. Spices were imported from India and the Spice Islands. Raisins, dates, figs and nuts supplied by the Mediterranean. cereal grains from Poland and Prussia and at the same time fish, butter, Cheese, fresh fruits and vegetables were produced domestically and exported. The Netherlands is the world's largest exporter of dairy products.