The plant that can feed the world is THIS!

In a groundbreaking report titled “The Plants that Feed the World,” the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) delves into the intricate relationship between climate change, conflicts, health considerations, lifestyle trends, and the crops that sustain us. Far beyond the staple grains like wheat, corn, and rice, the report highlights a staggering potential of over 7,000 plant species, with up to 30,000 deemed edible by humans.

One of the pivotal initiatives driving plant diversity is the International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture, established in 2001. Ensuring the equitable use of plant genetic resources globally, the treaty lists 64 key crops in its legally binding agreement, forming the foundation of our global “food basket.”

Here are four compelling trends shaping the future of our food sources, as identified by the FAO report:

1. Evolution of Food Security: The concept of food security has expanded beyond basic caloric needs to embrace nutrition, focusing on micro-nutrients alongside macronutrients. As diets undergo radical changes, the report emphasizes the importance of incorporating nutritious plants, not just caloric ones, into our food basket.
   
2. Changing Face of Plant-Based Diets: With a growing emphasis on nutrition, there’s a discernible trend toward consuming more plant-based proteins, including pulses. Lesser-known cereals such as millet and sorghum, and gluten-free alternatives like quinoa and amaranth, are gaining popularity for their nutritional benefits and environmental sustainability.
   
3. Global Interdependence for Crop Varieties: Climate change is altering precipitation patterns and temperatures, challenging the growth of certain crops in their traditional regions. This dynamic is intensifying the need for countries to source plant varieties from across the globe to adapt and improve production.
   
4. Culinary Trends Driving Crop Demand: Changing tastes and culinary fashions are influencing the demand for new crop varieties, not only from farmers seeking to enhance livelihoods but also from chefs exploring traditional and sustainable grains. Voices like Sierra Leonean chef Fatmata Binta are bringing attention to crops like fonio millets, which are nutritious and require less water.

The FAO’s report, encompassing data on 355 crops, promises to be a game-changer. Beyond informing policy discussions, including updates to the International Treaty’s crop basket, the report serves as a valuable resource for global decision-makers and researchers. In a world facing unprecedented interdependence and change, the International Treaty emerges as the singular binding agreement dedicated to safeguarding, conserving, and exchanging the genetic diversity of the plants essential for our global sustenance. This report lays the foundation for exploring the untapped potential of thousands of plant varieties that could shape the future of our food supply.