2 billion people suffer from malnutrition – these plants can help
Two billion people worldwide suffer from some form of malnutrition. This staggering statistic highlights a crisis that manifests in various ways: undernutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and obesity. While the causes are complex, one potential solution is gaining attention: underutilized and neglected plants. These lesser-known crops could be pivotal in addressing global nutritional gaps and building sustainable food systems.
Malnutrition is a multifaceted issue with profound consequences for individuals and societies. Undernutrition weakens immune systems, stunts growth, and hampers cognitive development, particularly in children. Micronutrient deficiencies, often called “hidden hunger,” deprive people of essential vitamins and minerals, leading to anemia and weakened bone health. On the other hand, obesity, increasingly prevalent even in low-income countries, raises the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and heart disease.
The roots of malnutrition are deeply intertwined with poverty, food insecurity, and environmental degradation. Current food systems, reliant on a narrow range of staple crops like rice, wheat, and maize, fail to provide the diversity of nutrients needed for optimal health. Additionally, these systems often prioritize yield over nutrition, exacerbating the problem.
Underutilized and neglected plants are a treasure trove of nutritional benefits. These include wild or less commonly cultivated crops rich in essential nutrients, adaptable to diverse climates, and often environmentally resilient. Incorporating them into diets could help tackle specific nutritional deficiencies while diversifying global food systems.
Here are some promising examples:
- Moringa: Known as the “drumstick tree,” moringa is packed with vitamins A and C, calcium, and potassium. Its leaves can be eaten fresh or dried into powder, making it a versatile nutritional booster.
- Amaranth: This ancient grain is high in protein, iron, and calcium. Its leaves are also edible and nutrient-dense, providing a double benefit.
- Quinoa: A complete protein containing all nine essential amino acids, quinoa is also rich in fibre, magnesium, and antioxidants.
- Fonio: A drought-resistant, gluten-free grain, fonio is rich in iron, zinc, and essential amino acids, making it a valuable addition to diets in arid regions.
- Turmeric and Ginger: These spices are celebrated not only for their flavour but also for their health benefits, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
These plants’ nutritional profiles make them well-suited to addressing vitamin, mineral, and protein deficiencies. Moreover, many are hardy and require fewer resources to cultivate, making them ideal for regions facing climate challenges.
Despite their promise, underutilized plants face several hurdles. Limited awareness among consumers and farmers, inadequate access to quality seeds, and underdeveloped processing and marketing infrastructure hinder their widespread adoption.
To unlock their potential, targeted efforts are needed:
- Research and Development: Investments in improving cultivation techniques and developing new food products can make these plants more appealing and accessible.
- Education and Awareness: Campaigns to inform communities about these crops’ nutritional and environmental benefits can drive demand and encourage their inclusion in diets.
- Local Engagement: Farmers and entrepreneurs are crucial in promoting these plants. Supporting small-scale producers with resources, training, and market access can create sustainable supply chains.
Incorporating underutilized plants into global food systems offers a pathway to greater sustainability and resilience. These crops can enhance food security, provide essential nutrients, and support local economies. Their cultivation often aligns with environmentally friendly practices, such as reduced water usage and natural pest resistance.
For example, drought-resistant crops like fonio and moringa can thrive in arid regions, reducing dependence on water-intensive staples. Additionally, diversifying crops helps maintain soil health and mitigate the risks associated with monoculture farming.
Underutilized plants offer a promising avenue to improve nutrition, support local livelihoods, and build more sustainable food systems. However, realizing this potential will require increased research, investment, and awareness-raising efforts.
The time to act is now. By embracing the diversity of underutilized crops, we can work toward a future where nutritious, sustainable, and equitable food systems nourish both people and the planet.
