Bones of contention: A reformative approach to deposits of cattle long bone splinters from Roman period sites

• Novel reformative definition of long bone splinter deposits as a distinct assemblage type. • First set of diagnostic criteria for the identification of long bone splinter deposits. • New insights into Roman cattle carcass processing practices. • Evidence from Roman settlements along the UNESCO World Heritage site “Danube Limes” and its hinterland. Diaphyseal fragments of cattle long bones frequently form conspicuous accumulations in Roman urban contexts. Despite their ubiquity, their interpretation remains contentious, ranging from by-products of marrow extraction and craft-related waste to construction material. This article defines and analyses Long Bone Splinter Deposits (BSD) from the Roman period sites Carnuntum, Ovilava, and Lauriacum. Traditionally overlooked or underestimated due to their fragmentary nature, these deposits are shown to represent structured accumulations resulting from standardized carcass processing sequences. Eight diagnostic criteria are developed, including species composition, skeletal element representation, surface modifications, fragment morphologies, and spatial context. The study argues that BSDs reflect specialized butchery and waste management practices, possibly linked to meat preservation, marrow extraction, or craft production. Their systematic documentation enhances our understanding of Roman food economies and urban infrastructure. BSDs offer therefore important insights into Roman provisioning systems, waste economies, and the organisation of animal-based production. Their consistent patterns across different sites underline the need for their systematic recording and interpretation as distinct assemblage types within zooarchaeological research.