Unlocking the Power of Neglected Crops: How NUCS Can Transform Sustainable Food Security

Illustrative Image: Unlocking the Power of Neglected Crops: How NUCS Can Transform Sustainable Food Security
Image Source & Credit: MDPI
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A recent study by Onawo, O. L., & Egboduku, W. O. (2025) titled “Highlighting the untapped potential of neglected and underutilized crop species for sustainable food security published in Journal of Underutilized Legumes, reveals that neglected and underutilized crop species (NUCS) have immense untapped potential to enhance sustainable food systems

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NUCS offer immense potential for sustainable food security through improved nutrition, climate resilience, and biodiversity, yet remain largely underutilized.
– Onawo, O. L., and Egboduku, W. O. (2025

This study sheds light on a critical yet often overlooked aspect of global agriculture and nutrition—the role of Neglected and Underutilized Crop Species (NUCS). These crops, which have traditionally been cultivated and consumed in various regions, have largely been pushed aside in favor of widely commercialized staples such as wheat, rice, and maize. The study argues that NUCS hold immense potential for advancing sustainable food security, particularly in regions facing the dual threats of climate change and economic instability. Unlike many mainstream crops, NUCS are typically well adapted to local environmental conditions, require fewer agricultural inputs, and can thrive in marginal soils, making them more environmentally sustainable. Beyond their agronomic resilience, NUCS are also vital from both cultural and nutritional standpoints. Rich in essential nutrients and often integral to local food traditions, these crops offer diverse dietary benefits. However, they remain significantly underfunded, under-researched, and undervalued in mainstream agricultural systems and policy frameworks. Importantly, the study calls for increased investment in research, development, and policy support for NUCS to unlock their full potential. Doing so would not only enhance agricultural biodiversity but also contribute to more resilient and locally driven food systems.

How the Study was Conducted

The study employed a desk review methodology; through an extensive literature review, the authors examined previously published studies and databases related to neglected and underutilized crop species (NUCS), with a focus on their production, nutritional value, and economic potential. A comparative analysis was conducted between NUCS and widely cultivated staple crops to assess the potential of NUCS in contributing to sustainable agriculture and resilient food systems. The study had a global scope, incorporating data from diverse regions where NUCS are traditionally grown—particularly in parts of Africa, Asia, and South America.

What the Authors Found

The authors found that neglected and underutilized crop species (NUCS) have immense untapped potential to enhance sustainable food systems—offering superior nutrition, climate resilience, and cultural value—but they remain overlooked due to research, policy, and funding gaps.

Why is this important

Food Security at Risk: With climate change, soil degradation, and growing populations, relying only on major staple crops is becoming increasingly risky. NUCS (Neglected and Underutilized Crop Species) offer an alternative that’s better suited to diverse local conditions.

Boosting Nutrition: Many of these underused crops are rich in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Reviving them can directly tackle malnutrition and hidden hunger.

Climate Adaptation: NUCS are often hardy crops that thrive in drought-prone or low-input areas. Promoting them can support farming communities that struggle with increasingly unpredictable weather patterns.

Preserving Biodiversity: Focusing on just a few global crops has eroded agrobiodiversity. Cultivating a wider range of species helps protect ecosystems and genetic resources.

Empowering Local Economies & Cultures: These crops are part of traditional diets and farming practices. Supporting them can strengthen cultural identity, empower smallholder farmers, and open new markets.

What the Authors Recommended

• The authors advocate promoting the nutritional, environmental, and cultural benefits of NUCS through public campaigns, community outreach, and school programs to drive demand and adoption.
• The study also emphasizes the push for dedicated government policies and increased funding for research, conservation, and the integration of NUCS into national and regional agricultural strategies.
• Provide farmers with training, resources, and incentives to cultivate NUCS profitably, while improving access to quality seeds and local markets.
• Incorporate NUCS into food aid programs, institutional procurement (like school meals), and climate-resilient farming practices to boost food security.
• Invest in scientific research to enhance breeding, agronomic practices, and post-harvest processing—ensuring NUCS are viable, productive, and competitive.

In conclusion, the study by Onawo and Egboduku (2025) underscores the urgent need to re-evaluate and reintegrate neglected and underutilized crop species (NUCS) into mainstream agriculture. As the world grapples with mounting food insecurity, climate challenges, and nutritional deficiencies, NUCS present a viable, sustainable, and culturally rich solution. Unlocking their full potential will require coordinated efforts across research, policy, and grassroots implementation. By investing in these overlooked crops, we can build more resilient food systems, empower local communities, and pave the way for a healthier, more food-secure future.