Neanderthals, who thrived around 125,000 years ago in what is now Germany, demonstrated advanced skills in food processing, particularly through a newly discovered method called a "fat factory." Excavations at Neumark-Nord, an ancient lake landscape, revealed a wealth of archaeological evidence, including thousands of bones from at least 172 large mammals, as well as flint tools. These bones predominantly belonged to species such as red deer and horses, dating back to an interglacial period during which Neanderthals resided in the region. The study, published on July 2 in Science Advances, highlighted a distinctive pattern in the distribution of bones: while less nutritious bones were scattered throughout the site, those rich in marrow were found in concentrated clusters, indicating a specialized area for extracting fat.
Researchers suggest that these ancient humans utilized tools to crush the bones into fragments, which were then boiled for extended periods. This process allowed them to skim off the fat that would rise to the surface, creating a highly caloric food source. Prior to this discovery, evidence of such organized fat extraction had only been found dating back to 28,000 years ago, marking this finding as significant in understanding the dietary practices of Neanderthals. Dr. Lutz Kindler, the study’s lead author, emphasized that this method displayed a remarkable degree of resource management, with Neanderthals strategically planning hunts and efficiently utilizing carcasses.
The nutritional importance of fat during colder seasons is emphasized in the research, which notes that Neanderthals relied heavily on animal protein, risking protein poisoning without adequate nutrient balance. Fat served as a vital resource, especially during winter and spring when carbohydrates were scarce. The study suggests that Neanderthals had a sophisticated understanding of their dietary needs, utilizing caching strategies to store and transport carcasses to designated fat-rendering sites.
Dr. Fulco Scherjon, a project data manager, highlighted the exceptional preservation and size of the Neumark-Nord site, providing a rare opportunity to examine the interactions between Neanderthals and their environment. Such findings opened doors for future research into their ecological impact and lifestyle. The site’s rich assemblage of artifacts and bones underscores the adaptive strategies of Neanderthals, positioning them as more complex and resourceful than previously thought.
Recent studies have expanded our understanding of Neanderthals’ capabilities beyond hunting. Evidence suggests they engaged in activities like diving for seashells, which they crafted into tools, and may have partaken in burial practices that involved placing flowers with the deceased. These behaviors indicate a depth of culture and social understanding that challenges earlier conceptions of Neanderthal life, pointing to a more nuanced existence.
While researchers Kindler and Wil Roebroeks were not immediately available for comment, their study adds significant insight into the Neanderthal way of life, casting them as adept and innovative foragers. The findings not only shed light on their resourcefulness but also pave the way for further exploration into their dietary habits and social structures. The Neumark-Nord site stands as a testament to the intricate relationship between Neanderthals and their environment, reinforcing their significance in the evolutionary narrative and our understanding of prehistoric life.
