Chimpanzees Drink Daily Alcohol Equivalent to a Pint from Fermented Figs
Studies of apes in their natural habitat show they imbibe the ethanol content of one standard drink on a regular basis through their consumption of naturally alcoholic fruit.
Findings from Ugandan and Ivorian Reserves
Scientists analyzed alcohol content in fallen fruit foraged by chimpanzees in Ugandan forests and Ivory Coast woodlands.
While single pieces of fruit contained less than 0.5% ethanol, the apes’ daily intake added up as they consumed large quantities of ripe fruit pulp.
Figs were a particular favorite among the apes, containing some of the highest alcohol levels observed.
Regular Alcohol Intake Equivalent to a Beer
According to research estimates, both genders of wild chimps consume approximately 14 grams of pure ethanol per day.
This quantity is equivalent to a typical alcoholic beverage.
“Chimpanzees consume a significant portion of their body weight in ripe fruit daily, so even small amounts result in a considerable intake of ethanol,” explained one expert.
Evolutionary Connection to Human Drinking Behavior
This behavior aligns with the “drunken monkey” hypothesis, which suggests that modern preference to alcohol may have origins in our evolutionary past.
The desire for energy-rich fermented fruit may have influenced a natural inclination toward ethanol intake.
Not the First Observations of Animal Drinking
Earlier studies have shown chimpanzees engaging in regular drinking, with some starting as in the morning.
Other animals also drink ethanol in the wild, including slow lorises that choose strong fruit when available.
Little Evidence of Drunkenness
Even with consuming up to several kilograms of alcoholic fruit per day, the apes display little visible signs of drunkenness.
Scientists note that to feel the full effects of alcohol, the chimpanzees would need to eat even more fruit—to the point to make them uncomfortably full.
Comparison with People’s Drinking Guidelines
Medical experts recommend that humans restrict drink consumption to reduce potential harm.
Research show that there is no completely safe level of ethanol intake for people.
