Abstract

NUNEZ CORTES, Yajaira  and  BARBA PINGARRON, Luis. Culinary practices at Lomas Entierros, Costa Rica: A perspective from chemical residue analysis on ceramic vessels. Trace (Méx. DF) [online]. 2023, n.84, pp.123-153.  Epub Dec 11, 2023. ISSN 2007-2392.  https://doi.org/10.22134/trace.84.2023.850.

The study of culinary practices allows us, among other things, to determine socioeconomic differences in ancient populations. At Lomas Entierros site a chemical residue analysis was carried out to identify residual substances from products that were consumed and prepared by different socioeconomic strata and in vessels of varied shape and value. The results indicate that all sectors of the population had ample access to carbohydrate-rich food resources. However, elite groups and intermediate status consumed more exclusive foods that were high in protein and fatty acids. Carbohydrates are reported in vessels of all shapes and value groups, while protein residues and fatty acids were mostly identified in high-value bowls.

Keywords : chemical residue; ceramic vessels; status; valuable objects; food.