125,000‑Year‑Old Neanderthal “Fat Factory” Discovered

Fact Fun dives into a remarkable archaeological find in what is now northern Russia: a massive 125,000‑year‑old Neanderthal fat factory, where prehistoric humans crushed hundreds of large-animal bones to extract nutritious marrow and grease—likely a cornerstone of their diet during harsh Ice Age winters.

the Neanderthals 125,000 years ago pioneers of a practiceAt the Neumark-Nord site, bone grease was extracted from animals such as horses and deer. Image credit: Wil Roebroeks, Leiden University

At the site, researchers uncovered evidence that Neanderthals deposited bone piles at specialized locations near lakes and hearths. Analysis suggests this was not random leftovers, but the remains of over 172 large-mammal carcasses processed deliberately for fat extraction—signifying organized food planning, communal activity, and a deep understanding of nutrition.

125,000-Year-Old NeanderthalBones and bone fragments from Neumark-Nord provide clear evidence of this bone grease extraction. Image credit: Lutz Kindler, LEIZA-Monrepos

This ancient “factory” reflects a sophisticated survival strategy: extracting high-calorie bone grease requires purposeful effort—burning bones to make marrow removable, boiling residues, and storing the fat for later consumption. It positions Neanderthals not just as hunters, but as deliberate culinary planners using prehistoric “kitchen” techniques.

💡 Did You Know?

Some human hunter-gatherer groups today still preserve animal bone grease for winter use—making the Neanderthals 125,000 years ago pioneers of a practice that endured for millennia.

Fascinated by inventive food strategies of early humans? Fact Fun uncovers humanity’s earliest culinary ingenuity, survival tactics, and remarkable adaptations. Bookmark Fact Fun—your journey into prehistory’s most fascinating discoveries is just beginning.

ref : IFLScience , Nature Scientific Reports

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