Evolution of Human Food Environments

The evolution of human food environments reflects significant changes influenced by our non-human primate ancestors who thrived mainly on a diet of leaves and fruits. Over millions of years, a pivotal shift occurred about 3 million years ago when certain ape species began to adapt to drier savanna environments, leading to the use of stone tools around 2.6 million years ago. This innovation allowed these early humans to manipulate their environment and access a wider variety of food sources, particularly large game, which transformed their diets. As they continued to evolve, the development of tools and the control of fire emerged, significantly altering their nutritional environments and paving the way for future adaptations in human biology and dietary needs.