Review of the Role of Orphan Crops in Food Security

Abstract

Ethiopia is one of the most populated countries in Africa. Agriculture employs over 70% of the population. It is dominated by small-scale farmers who practice rain-fed mixed farming by using traditional technology, adopting a low input and low output production system. As a result, it is vulnerable to adverse weather conditions. Cereal crops provide food for majority Ethiopians, so most agricultural transformation plans prioritize increasing cereal crop productivity. However, about five million people experience food insecurity each year and require support. Population growth, environmental degradation, conflict, and climate change are the most serious threats to nation’s food security. In a time when the food supply cannot keep up with population expansion, there is a need for holistic solutions to development-related issues such as food insecurity, malnutrition, and poverty. Despite Ethiopia being a center of origin and diversity for several food crops, the potential benefits of underutilized indigenous crops are yet not exploited. However, they can play a significant part in human nutrition, income, and medicinal value. As a result, crop diversification may be the best choice for achieving household food security. One way to help nation’s food systems diversify is to include more orphan crops. Even though a small portion of the country’s land is dedicated to underused crops, more than 20% of the population relies on them for food. Orphan crops, such as enset, which can feed 100 million people, can help to attain food security in Ethiopia. As a result, promoting and researching these crops is the most sustainable strategy for lowering and managing poverty and food insecurity in Ethiopia.

The Role of Root and Tuber Crops on Food Diversification Facing the Climate Change in East Java Indonesia

“…Cassava is the fourth most important food crop in the developing countries after rice, wheat and maize. It also one of the most important sources of commercial starch and the second most important source of starch worldwide after maize because of its high grade, excellent thickening, neutral taste, desirable texture, and relatively low cost [13]. Food diversification and incorporation of resilient crop species such as an orphan, minor, or underutilized into food systems will ensure food and protein security in many parts of Africa [12].…”

Unveiling awareness and knowledge of orphan plants: catalysts for sustainable transformation in Al-Zarqa Basin, Jordan

“…These crops hold the promise of promoting healthier lifestyles, augmenting the livelihoods of farmers, and bolstering food and nutrition security. Nevertheless, due to a paucity of research funding and the lag in modern breeding techniques, orphan crops face challenges in adapting to environmental adversities like drought, flooding, and extreme heat [8][9][10]. Initiatives are underway to raise awareness about the significance of orphan crops and to support research, conservation, and enhancement efforts [11].…”

“…Noteworthy examples of orphan crops frequently cultivated in the Middle East include Finger millet, Tef, Yam, Cassava, Lentil, Chickpea, Faba bean, Cowpea, Bambara groundnut, and African yam bean. These crops boast rich nutritional profiles and adapt well to local growing conditions [8,10,13]. By advocating for the cultivation and consumption of these orphan crops, Middle Eastern communities can elevate their nutritional intake, fortify food security, and heighten resilience to environmental challenges.…”

“…By advocating for the cultivation and consumption of these orphan crops, Middle Eastern communities can elevate their nutritional intake, fortify food security, and heighten resilience to environmental challenges. This, in turn, contributes to an ameliorated overall well-being and improved economic prospects, particularly for smallholder farmers in the region [6,[8][9][10]12].…”