“Unveiling the Secrets of an Ancient Neanderthal ‘Fat Factory’: Insights from 125,000 Years Ago” | CNN

Recent research reveals that ancient humans, particularly Neanderthals, may have been more advanced in their culinary practices than we once thought. In a study published in *Science Advances*, archaeologists discovered what they called a “fat factory” near a lake in Germany. Here, Neanderthals processed animal carcasses for fat, using techniques that showcase their organization and survival skills.

Excavators found around 120,000 bone fragments and 16,000 stone tools at a site named Neumark-Nord, which dates back approximately 125,000 years. Remarkably, evidence suggests these ancient humans weren’t just scavenging; they were intentionally smashing bones, boiling them, and skimming off the fat that floated to the surface.

Wil Roebroeks, a co-author of the study and a Paleolithic archaeology professor at Leiden University, spoke about the complexities of Neanderthal life. He noted, “This challenges the old notion that Neanderthals were primitive. They were capable planners with sophisticated skills.” This aligns with ongoing archaeological trends showing that Neanderthals had a richer culture than previously recognized. They made tools, crafted jewelry, and created art, suggesting a nuanced understanding of their environment.

Nutrition plays a key role in this new understanding. Hunter-gatherers like Neanderthals relied heavily on dietary fat, crucial for their survival. A balanced diet featuring fats would have been necessary for their metabolic health, preventing conditions like protein poisoning, which early explorers referred to as “rabbit poisoning.”

At the Neumark-Nord site, researchers noted that the animals processed included deer, horses, and aurochs. Neanderthals targeted large bones, likely for their marrow, which provided vital nutrients. This indicates they not only hunted but also had specific strategies for maximizing their caloric intake. They even might have made pots from natural materials to render these fats over a fire.

Geoff Smith, another researcher involved in the study, argued that this work highlights Neanderthals as planners and skilled big-game hunters. “These weren’t just simple hunter-gatherers. They could organize complex tasks efficiently,” he pointed out. As evidence suggests, they potentially flavored their fatty broths with plants, adding variety and nutrients to their meals.

The findings at Neumark-Nord have garnered attention, with experts noting that they provide clear archaeological proof of Neanderthal practices. Ludovic Slimak from the French National Centre for Scientific Research captured the excitement: “This discovery shows Neanderthals understood the value of bone lipids and had specific strategies to extract and process them.”

Overall, this research significantly contributes to our understanding of Neanderthal life, painting a picture of a species that was intelligent, resourceful, and capable of complex survival strategies. As we continue to explore their past, it seems the more we learn, the more nuanced our view of these ancient humans becomes.

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