Chimpanzees in the Wild Consume Enough Fermented Fruits Equal to Two Drinks Daily, Study Reveals

In the lush forests of Uganda and Côte d'Ivoire, chimpanzees gather in large numbers among fig and plum trees, seeking out fruit that is not only soft and sugary but also mildly intoxicating. Recent scientific research indicates that these seemingly innocent daily feasts equate to about two standard alcoholic drinks for a human adult.

The Sugary Bounty in the Forest

Every day, the chimpanzees treat themselves to these fruits, which are not just nutritious but slightly fermented, thus possessing alcohol content. It's a natural occurrence as the overripened fruit ferments right on the tree, converting sugars into alcohol.

Research and Observations

This study sheds light on the feeding habits of chimpanzees, revealing a surprising aspect of their diet. By consuming these fermented fruits, they're not just feeding, but also inadvertently consuming alcohol equivalent to approximately two drinks a day, an intake that might influence their behavior.

Comparative Analysis with Human Consumption

The findings prompt an interesting comparison with human habits. While not intoxicated, the chimpanzees' alcohol consumption from these fruits is analogous to a moderate drinking habit among humans, offering insight into the evolutionary aspects of our own dietary preferences.