Neanderthal

Analysis of Neanderthal bones suggests that they were eating as much meat as lions and hyenas; this is based on the high levels of nitrogen-15 in their bones. But humans can’t eat that much protein without developing fatal “protein poisoning”.

Noting that maggots feeding on decomposing meat have incredibly high heavy nitrogen levels, the latest hypothesis is that Neanderthals could achieve those high heavy nitrogen levels in their bones without eating impossible amounts of meat by eating the maggots instead.

Traditional Indigenous Arctic peoples have long considered thoroughly rotted, maggot-infested meat a delicacy. So these researchers are now suggesting Neanderthals were practicing maggot farming using carcasses.

Conjecture at best. It’s an interesting hypothesis that adds maggots to the list of possible explanations alongside other factors that could elevate heavy nitrogen levels – cooking methods, other food sources, environmental factors, or simply measurement uncertainties.

Or, academics seeking attention. They certainly got mine