Scientists have discovered that Neanderthals in central Germany, 125,000 years ago, used an advanced method of food preparation involving systematic stripping of fat from animal bones using water and heat. The findings, published in Science Advances, challenge the long-held stereotype of Neanderthals as brutish cavemen.
The research was conducted at the Neumark-Nord archaeological site in Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, and uncovered evidence of Neanderthal hunting and butchering practices that were previously unknown to science. The study found that Neanderthals not only smashed bones to access marrow but also crushed them into fragments and boiled them to obtain bone grease.
Lead author Dr. Lutz Kindler described the process as “intensive, organized, and strategic,” highlighting the Neanderthals’ sophisticated understanding of nutrition and resource management. The discovery pushes back the timeline for this practice by thousands of years, challenging previous assumptions about the capabilities of early humans.
The Neumark-Nord complex is a full interglacial ecosystem that provides valuable insights into Neanderthal behavior and adaptation. Excavations revealed evidence of deer hunting, elephant processing, and fat removal in specialized areas, showcasing the Neanderthals’ ability to plan and manage resources effectively.
While the exact method used by Neanderthals to “boil” bone fragments remains unclear, experts speculate that they may have used natural materials such as hot rocks or woven baskets filled with water. The discovery highlights the Neanderthals’ intelligence and capacity for innovation, challenging traditional stereotypes of early human behavior.
The findings also raise concerns about the environmental impact of Neanderthal hunting practices on slow-reproducing species in the region during the Last Interglacial period.
Source: https://archaeologymag.com/2025/07/neanderthals-operated-fat-factory-125000-years-ago