Aside from meat, what else did Neanderthals eat? How do scientists know?

Aside from meat, Neanderthals also consumed a variety of plant-based foods. Scientists have gathered evidence of this through several methods:

1. Dental Plaque Analysis: By examining the dental calculus (hardened plaque) on Neanderthal teeth, researchers have found microfossils of plant starches and fibers. This indicates that Neanderthals ate a range of plant materials, including seeds, nuts, and tubers.

2. Isotopic Analysis: The isotopic composition of Neanderthal bones can provide insights into their diet. While high levels of nitrogen isotopes suggest a significant consumption of meat, the presence of other isotopes can indicate the intake of plant-based foods.

3. Archaeological Evidence: Tools and residues found at Neanderthal sites also offer clues. For example, stone tools with wear patterns consistent with plant processing and the discovery of plant residues on these tools suggest that Neanderthals used them to prepare plant foods.

4. Coprolite Studies: Analysis of fossilized feces (coprolites) can reveal undigested food particles. Studies of Neanderthal coprolites have shown traces of plant matter, further supporting the idea that their diet included more than just meat.

Through these methods, scientists have been able to build a more comprehensive picture of the Neanderthal diet, showing that it was diverse and included a variety of plant-based foods in addition to meat.