Paleofeces

Paleofeces are ancient human feces found during archaeological work or in locations with conditions that support preservation, including arid caves. Researchers examine their contents, such as seeds, small bones and parasite eggs, to study the diet and health of the people who produced them. Chemical methods, including lipid and ancient DNA analysis, can provide further information. Preservation is attributed to the Maillard reaction, and samples are generally frozen and ground into powder for analysis.

Definition

Ancient human feces

Research use

Evidence of ancient diet and health

Preservation process

Maillard reaction