Yes, early humans likely ate honey.
Based on available research, honey has likely been a part of the diet of our ancestors, including the earliest hominins. This suggests that even very early humans, dating back far into our evolutionary history, probably consumed honey when they had the opportunity.
However, it's important to note that the ability to acquire honey would have varied greatly over time. The earliest hominins likely had a more limited ability to get honey compared to later, fully modern hunter-gatherers. This difference is due to factors like improved tool use, increased knowledge of bee behavior, and advancements in hunting and gathering techniques.
Here is a summary of our understanding:
| Period | Likelihood of Honey Consumption | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| Earliest Hominins | Likely, but limited | Less advanced tools and gathering skills. |
| Later Hunter-Gatherers | More frequent | Improved technology and knowledge of bee behavior. |
The consumption of honey is a key part of our past and highlights an important shift in our diet. From relying on easier-to-obtain resources, to taking the necessary risks to harvest the honey found by bees. This shows that early humans were willing to put in the effort to obtain high-value foods like honey.
