New study reveals the true diet of ancient Andeans: Mostly Plants, Not Meat

[Judi Lynn]

By Steven Liang -January 28, 2024



The Wilamaya Patjxa archeological site in Peru produced human remains showing that the diets of early people of the Andes were primarily composed of plant materials. Credit: Randy Haas


A team led by a University of Wyoming archaeologist has made a surprising discovery that could change our understanding of early human diets, especially in the Andes of South America.

Their research suggests that the common belief of early humans as mainly hunters might be incorrect. Instead, in the Andes, they were primarily gatherers of plant foods.

This groundbreaking study, led by Assistant Professor Randy Haas, analyzed the remains of 24 individuals from burial sites in Peru, specifically Wilamaya Patjxa and Soro Mik’aya Patjxa.

The common view of early human diets has long been centered on meat consumption, fueled by the idea of a high-protein “Paleodiet.” However, this new study challenges that narrative, especially for the period between 9,000 to 6,500 years ago in the Andes.

While there is evidence of hunting large mammals, the isotopic composition of the human bones from these sites indicates that plants were the major part of their diet.

More:
https://knowridge.com/2024/01/new-study-reveals-the-true-diet-of-ancient-andeans-mostly-plants-not-meat/

[Aussie105]

1. Not surprising.

So much safer to dig up roots, collect seeds and pick fruit off plants than hunting something.

Humans were never designed to eat as much meat as modern Americans do.

[jimfields33]

2. Although our teeth are designed for some meat eating.