Research suggests maggots were part of Neanderthal diets

New findings reveal that Neanderthals could have regularly included maggots in their diets.

Maggots might have been a dietary staple for Neanderthals

Recent research published in Science Advances suggests that maggots, the larvae of flies, may have played a significant role in the diets of prehistoric humans, including Neanderthals. Previously noted for their high consumption of meat, researchers like Melanie Beasley from Purdue University have discovered that this chemical composition in Neanderthal bones may be linked to their consumption of not only putrid meat but also maggots. This builds on earlier theories by anthropologist John Speth and provides new insights into the nutritional strategies of these ancient hunter-gatherers. The study compares nitrogen levels in contemporary decay processes with those found in ancient bones, revealing that the larvae contain much higher nitrogen levels than the surrounding rotting meat.

These findings challenge traditional views on what constitutes an acceptable food source and suggest a broader definition of prehistoric diets. Neanderthals, often depicted as purely carnivorous, may have had a more varied menu than previously thought. This research emphasizes the importance of adapting perceptions of food choices through a cultural lens, as contemporary views often dismiss what seems unappetizing. Furthermore, it raises intriguing questions about dietary practices across different cultures, both ancient and modern, emphasizing that taste preferences are often shaped by contextual factors and survival needs.

Highlights

The implications of this study provide an unexpected perspective on our ancient ancestors' diets.