Prehistoric European Diet Reveals Surprising Complexity

New research indicates that prehistoric human ancestors, specifically those living in northern Europe between 5,000 and 8,000 years ago, had a more diverse and complex diet than previously assumed. This challenges earlier assumptions that their diet primarily consisted of large game.

The study, published in the scientific journal PLOS ONE, analyzed "foodcrusts" found on 85 potshards. These artifacts provided direct evidence of ancient culinary practices.

Of the examined potshards, 58 contained identifiable fragments of various plants, roots, tubers, and leaves. Specific food items identified included carp and other freshwater fish, viburnum berries, amaranth, beets, and an edible weed known as oak-leaved goosefoot.

Oliver Craig, a co-author of the study from the University of York, stated that the findings suggest ancient populations were selective in their cooking methods, indicating an early development of what could be considered "recipes."

The evidence points to a diet that incorporated both hunted animals and gathered plant resources, prepared with a degree of sophistication.