Apes Ingest Daily Ethanol Equivalent to a Beer from Ripe Figs
Research of apes in their natural habitat indicate they consume the ethanol content of one standard drink each day through their consumption of naturally alcoholic fruit.
Research from African National Parks
Experts measured ethanol levels in fallen fruit foraged by apes in Ugandan forests and Taï National Park.
While individual fruits contained under 0.5% ethanol, the apes’ daily intake added up as they ate large quantities of fermented fruit flesh.
Fig fruits were a commonly eaten fruit among the apes, containing some of the highest ethanol concentrations observed.
Regular Alcohol Intake Equivalent to a Beer
According to scientific analysis, both genders of wild chimps ingest around 14 grams of pure ethanol per day.
This amount is equal to a typical alcoholic beverage.
“The apes eat a significant portion of their body weight in fermented fruit each day, so even small amounts result in a considerable intake of ethanol,” noted one researcher.
Evolutionary Link to Human Drinking Behavior
This behavior aligns with the “drunken monkey” theory, which proposes that modern attraction to drinking may have origins in our primate ancestors.
The preference for energy-rich ripe fruit may have influenced a natural inclination toward alcohol consumption.
Previous Observations of Primate Alcohol Consumption
Earlier research have shown chimpanzees practicing regular alcohol consumption, with some beginning as early as 7am.
Additional species also drink ethanol in the wild, including small primates that prefer strong beverages when available.
No Signs of Inebriation
Despite consuming up to 4.5kg of fermented fruit per day, chimpanzees display no obvious signs of intoxication.
Researchers suggest that to experience the full effects of alcohol, the chimpanzees would need to eat an excessive amount fruit—to the point to make them bloated.
Comparison with People’s Drinking Recommendations
Medical experts advise that humans limit drink consumption to reduce health risks.
Studies indicate that there is no completely safe level of alcohol consumption for humans.
