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Neanderthals Feasted on Maggots, Not Just Meat

7/26/2025

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Summary

Story summary

New research reveals that Neanderthals may have dined on maggots from decaying meat, upending the notion that they were strict meat-eaters. High nitrogen levels in their bones, once thought to indicate a meat-heavy diet, could actually be a sign of their nutrient-rich maggot meals. This discovery reshapes our view of Neanderthal diets and their place in the ecosystem.

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Story summary

New research reveals that Neanderthals may have dined on maggots from decaying meat, upending the notion that they were strict meat-eaters. High nitrogen levels in their bones, once thought to indicate a meat-heavy diet, could actually be a sign of their nutrient-rich maggot meals. This discovery reshapes our view of Neanderthal diets and their place in the ecosystem.