125,000-year-old 'Fat Factory' Run by Neanderthals Discovered in Germany

Introduction

In a recent discovery, researchers have found evidence of a 125,000-year-old "fat factory" that was run by Neanderthals in Germany. This discovery sheds light on the extraordinary lengths that Stone Age humans went to in order to include fat in their diet.

Background

The research was conducted at a cave in Germany, where archaeologists found tiny stone tools and animal bones with cut marks. These tools were used by Neanderthals to extract fat from the bones of animals. It is believed that the Neanderthals used this fat as a source of energy and nutrition, as well as for medicinal purposes.

The Importance of Fat

Fat is an essential nutrient that provides energy and helps in the absorption of vitamins. In the past, when food was scarce, humans had to find alternative sources of fat to meet their nutritional needs. This discovery shows that Neanderthals were well aware of the importance of fat in their diet and were willing to go to great lengths to acquire it.

Similar Discoveries

This is not the first time that evidence of early humans' use of fat has been found. In 2018, a study revealed that Neanderthals used to hunt and butcher large animals for their fat and marrow. In addition, other research has shown that early humans used to extract fat from plants and insects as well.

The Impact of Early Human Diet

The discovery of this "fat factory" also provides insight into the diet and lifestyle of early humans. It shows that they had a diverse and balanced diet that included a variety of nutrients. This new information challenges the long-held belief that Neanderthals had a limited and unvaried diet.

Conclusion

This discovery is a significant addition to our understanding of early human evolution. It shows that Neanderthals were not just primitive beings, but rather intelligent and resourceful individuals. It also highlights the importance of fat in the human diet and how early humans were able to adapt and thrive in challenging environments.

References

1. CNN: 125,000-year-old 'fat factory' run by Neanderthals discovered in Germany

2. Reuters: Justice Department accuses two Chinese researchers of smuggling 'potential agroterrorism weapon' into US

3. BBC: Neanderthals hunted for their meat and marrow

4. Science Magazine: Neanderthals' versatile diet offers clues to their extinction