What are the potential explanations for the controversial discovery of cocaine and nicotine traces in ancient Egyptian mummies?

The discovery of cocaine and nicotine in ancient Egyptian mummies by German toxicologist Svetlana Balabanova has sparked significant debate in archaeological circles. Two main explanations emerge for these controversial findings: contamination and alternative sources. Contamination represents the most likely scenario, where modern substances could have been introduced to the mummies after their discovery through handling, storage, or testing procedures. This possibility casts serious doubt on claims of pre-Columbian contact between ancient Egypt and the Americas. Additionally, researchers note that nicotine can be found in various plants beyond tobacco, providing alternative explanations for its presence. These findings highlight the complexities of archaeological research and the importance of rigorous scientific methodology when interpreting potentially groundbreaking discoveries.