A broodzegel (literally: bread seal) is an old way to seal documents using bread and paper.
In the late Middle Ages, smaller wax seals were sometimes covered with paper to help preserve the imprint. Sometimes, bread or dough was used instead of wax. Such a seal would be called a broodzegel.
Document with bread seal
Bread seal of Rotterdam (detail)
Source: Photo and information from Stadsarchief Rotterdam Facebook post; citing 1-01_2162: Records relating to the case between Gorinchem, Schoonhoven and Rotterdam versus Dordrecht about the continuation of the so-called octrooi serviel of 1520, 1551-1563, with older records. Used with permission.
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