Read, Watch or Listen

New research reveals Neanderthals in Germany, 125,000 years ago, operated a large-scale "fat factory" to extract bone grease from animal bones. This intensive process, involving thousands of bone fragments, suggests advanced cognitive abilities and planning, challenging the notion of Neanderthals as solely focused on immediate needs. The discovery pushes back evidence of bone grease rendering by at least 100,000 years, showcasing their sophisticated techniques and potential food storage practices. This finding, published in Science Advances, provides significant insight into Neanderthal behavior and resource management.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.