Orphan Crops: Best for Diet and Local Food Security
What Are They?
Orphan (or minor) crops are those crops typically not traded internationally but can play an important role in regional food security.
They are a good source of
proteins, fibre, vitamins & minerals t
hat help in the
reduction of weight
and regulate
blood pressure
and health.
Millets
Also known as “black-eyed peas"
rich in amino acids
compared to other grains.
Cowpea
It is a legume crop
rich in protein and fibre
, and it’s great for intercropping, which improves soil fertility by adding more nitrogen.
Pigeonpea
It is of the largest-volume orphan crops, which is the third-most important
source of calories in the tropics
, after rice and maize.
Cassava
Though we use the word “yam” It is a
type of sweet potato,
They are starchy tubers, and an estimated 60 million Africans eat them daily.
Yam:
They provide income for poor farmers and serve as staples diet, they are uniquely adapted to the environment in which they are grown
Why They Matter?
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