Discover How Neanderthals Created a Prehistoric ‘Fat Factory’ 125,000 Years Ago on the Shores of Germany

Neanderthals were way more sophisticated than we often think. About 125,000 years ago, they had developed a method for preparing food that’s surprisingly advanced. Research from the Neumark-Nord 2 archaeological site in central Germany shows how they processed large animal bones to extract fat using water and heat.

This discovery, published in Science Advances, was led by a team from the Leibniz Centre for Archaeology and Leiden University. It challenges the stereotype of Neanderthals as simple hunters. Instead, they demonstrated strategic planning and resource management. Dr. Lutz Kindler, the lead author, explained that Neanderthals meticulously planned hunts and transported carcasses to specific places for processing. They understood the nutritional benefits of fat and found efficient ways to access it.

At Neumark-Nord, they butchered at least 172 large mammals, including deer and horses. The production of bone grease, a nutrient-rich resource, was previously thought to be a behavior specific to modern humans. This discovery not only shows Neanderthals’ advanced skills but also rewrites our understanding of their diet, pushing these practices back by thousands of years.

The Neumark-Nord site is unique because it preserves a complete ecosystem, rather than just isolated artifacts. Excavations have revealed various activities, such as deer hunting and butchering elephants. According to Prof. Wil Roebroeks from Leiden University, this site offers insight into a range of Neanderthal behaviors in one location, providing a clearer picture of their lives.

Interestingly, the mass hunting of large animals also likely left an impact on local wildlife. Some experts warn that such harvesting could have strained resources, especially for species with slow reproduction rates. This indicates that Neanderthals were not just primitive hunters but were capable of understanding and managing their environment.

So, the story of Neanderthals is one of intelligence and adaptability. They weren’t just brute cavemen but were, in fact, skilled strategists who could plan for the future and make the most of their resources. This new view encourages us to rethink our assumptions about our ancient relatives.

For more detailed insights, check out the original research here.

Source link

Food History,Neanderthals