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Chimpanzees’ Daily Fermented Fruit Consumption Reveals Alcohol's Evolutionary Roots

9/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A new study finds chimpanzees regularly consume fermented fruit, suggesting evolutionary roots for alcohol use.
University of California researchers estimate the amount equals about one small bottle of beer daily.
The study sampled Kibale National Park, Uganda, and Taï National Park, Ivory Coast, finding 0.3% alcohol.
Kimberley Hockings notes ethanol is more common in nature, prompting questions about shared consumption.

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Story summary

A new study finds chimpanzees regularly consume fermented fruit, suggesting evolutionary roots for alcohol use.
University of California researchers estimate the amount equals about one small bottle of beer daily.
The study sampled Kibale National Park, Uganda, and Taï National Park, Ivory Coast, finding 0.3% alcohol.
Kimberley Hockings notes ethanol is more common in nature, prompting questions about shared consumption.