Leveraging Neglected and Underutilized Plant, Fungi, and Animal Species for More Nutrition Sensitive and Sustainable Food Systems

Stefano Padulosi, Donna Mareè Cawthorn, Gennifer Meldrum, Roberto Flore, Afton Halloran, Federico Mattei

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingBook chapterResearchpeer-review

18 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

As a result of the narrow focus of modern agriculture on a limited number of crops and animals, today the vast majority of edible plants, fungi, and animals is poorly addressed by research and development. This article highlights the rich diversity of neglected and underutilized species (NUS) and identifies opportunities and challenges for their use. Along with research and development attention, better marketing and consumer awareness on the benefits of neglected and underutilized species can play a critical role in sustainable promotion of NUS and enhance their role for resilience to climate change, food and nutrition security and income generation.

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationEncyclopedia of Food Security and Sustainability
EditorsPasquale Ferranti, Elliot M. Berry, Jock R. Anderson
Number of pages10
Volume3
PublisherElsevier
Publication date2019
Pages361-370
ISBN (Print)978-0-12-812687-5
ISBN (Electronic)978-0-12-812688-2
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2019
SeriesReference Module in Food Science

Keywords

  • Alternative protein sources
  • Diets
  • Diversification
  • Domestication
  • Edible insects
  • Functional foods
  • Future foods
  • Minor crops and livestock
  • Mushrooms
  • Neglected and underutilized species (NUS)
  • Orphan crops
  • Production systems
  • Wild edibles

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