Exploring the Potential of Lesser-Known Crops for Sustainable Agriculture: A Review with Focus on Nutritional Value, Environmental Benefits and Integration Challenges

Abstract

Monoculture practices and reliance on a handful of major crops have led to vulnerabilities in global food security and environmental sustainability. Lesser-known crops (LKCs), like orange-fleshed sweet potato, moringa leaves, jamun fruit, lentils, and amaranth leaves, offer a promising alternative. LKCs boast high nutritional value, resilience to climate change, and the potential to thrive in diverse environments. This review explores the potential of LKCs to drive sustainable agriculture, focusing on their nutritional profiles, environmental benefits, and challenges associated with integrating them into mainstream agriculture. The review examines various LKC categories, including underutilized pulses, tubers, vegetables, and fruits. Their potential contributions to dietary diversity, addressing micronutrient deficiencies, and overall food security are highlighted. The environmental benefits of LKCs, such as reduced water footprint, improved soil health, and increased biodiversity, are also explored. Pakistan's specific context is incorporated, including the prevalence of malnutrition, challenges faced by the agricultural sector, and potential LKCs suitable for local conditions. The review identifies opportunities and constraints related to LKC adoption in Pakistan, encompassing factors like consumer awareness, market access, research and development, and government policies. Finally, recommendations are provided to promote LKC utilization in Pakistan. These include raising awareness among consumers and policymakers, establishing robust value chains, conducting research on LKC cultivation and processing, and implementing supportive government policies.