Highlighting the critical need to transform our global food systems, the Alliance Bioversity International and CIAT supports the "Global Manifesto on Forgotten Foods." This initiative, launched by the Global Forum on Agricultural Research and Innovation (GFAR) in July 2021, calls for a united effort to conserve and promote underutilised plant species, also known as 'forgotten foods' or Neglected and Underutilized Species (NUS).
The current global food system heavily relies on a minimal number of staple crops like wheat, rice, and maize. This lack of diversity contributes to biodiversity loss, malnutrition, and increased vulnerability to climate change and other shocks. The shocking statistic that 75% of the world's food originates from only 12 plant and 5 animal species underscores this precarious situation.
The Power of Forgotten Foods
Forgotten foods offer a powerful solution. These species are often highly nutritious, resilient to harsh climatic conditions, and hold deep cultural significance for local communities. By bringing them back into our food systems, we can enhance dietary diversity, improve nutritional outcomes, build resilience, and support sustainable livelihoods.
A Manifesto for Collective Action
The Global Manifesto on Forgotten Foods is a call to action for a broad coalition of stakeholders, including farmers, scientists, chefs, investors, and policymakers. It advocates for collective efforts to:
- Support and fund research into NUS to understand their benefits and cultivation.
- Empower local communities, particularly women and youth, who are often the custodians of traditional knowledge about these crops.
- Develop and strengthen value chains for forgotten foods, from farm to table.
- Influence policies to create an enabling environment for the conservation and promotion of NUS.
The Alliance Bioversity International and CIAT emphasizes its commitment to working with partners worldwide to implement the Manifesto's vision. Their expertise in agricultural biodiversity, crop conservation, and sustainable food systems is crucial in this global effort.
The ultimate goal is to transform our food systems into ones that are not only productive but also diverse, resilient, equitable, and capable of nourishing both people and the planet for generations to come. Conserving and promoting forgotten foods is a key pathway to achieving this vital transformation.