Investigating infant feeding strategies at Roman Bainesse through Bayesian modelling of incremental dentine isotopic data

We present the first study employing Bayesian modelling of isotopic measurements on dentine increments (five human upper first molars) to address Romano-British infant feeding practices at Bainesse (UK). The stable carbon and nitrogen isotope results modelled to 6-month intervals with novel OsteoBioR software revealed some common patterns, with weaning not starting before the age of 6 months and higher animal protein consumption after the age of seven. The latter possibly indicated a 'survival' threshold, evidenced by historical sources and osteological data, hence marking a rise in social status of children. The important role of Bainesse as commercial hub in relation to the fort of Cataractonium does not exclude a priori the possibility that medical treatises and Roman culture were known at the site. However, our results also showed significant intra-individual differences with weaning cessation taking place between 2 and 5 years, suggesting that these were followed only partially and other aspects influenced family decisions on infant feeding practices in Bainesse.

Automated summary

The study using Bayesian modelling of isotopic measurements on human dentine increments in Roman-British Bainesse revealed common patterns in infant feeding practices, indicating a social status rise with higher animal protein consumption. However, significant intra-individual differences were also observed, with weaning cessation varying between 2 and 5 years, suggesting family decisions and other factors influencing infant feeding practices in Bainesse.