Humans were eating seafood at least as far back as 165,000 years ago, according to significant archaeological findings.
Based on compelling archaeological evidence, the consumption of seafood by humans has a very deep history, extending much further back in time than previously established.
Researchers excavating a cave located on the southern coast of South Africa made a remarkable discovery: a collection of edible shellfish remains. These findings were dated back to approximately 165,000 years ago. This period coincided with a time when the African climate was notably colder and drier.
This specific discovery is particularly significant because it effectively pushes back the earliest known instance of a human seafood meal by a considerable 40,000 years. It highlights the adaptability and resourcefulness of early humans, demonstrating that coastal resources were a part of their diet during various environmental conditions.
This evidence provides a concrete date for when humans were certainly utilizing marine resources for sustenance, offering valuable insight into the dietary habits of our ancient ancestors.