What are underutilised crops?

We define underutilised crops as plant species that are used traditionally for their food, fibre, fodder, oil or medicinal properties. They have an under-exploited potential to contribute to food security, nutrition, health, income generation and environmental services.

At present, only 150 plant species are used and commercialised on a significant global scale; over 50% of the world's requirement for protein and calories are met by only three: rice, wheat and maize.

Yet, there are an estimated 7,000 species that play a crucial role in poor people's livelihood strategies and may have a significant potential for commercialisation.

Alongside their commercial potential, many of the underutilised plant species also provide important environmental services, as they are adapted to marginal soil and climate conditions. Read more...

New centre to boost underutilised crops

An international body for gathering and promoting knowledge about underused crops is to be established in Malaysia. Read more...

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Recently Published:

Research Report 5

Quality standards for safou (Dacryodes edulis) will help the productivity and efficiency in the safou sector. The described quality requirements will provide a common ‘language’ for the buying and selling of safou, which is fast gaining ground on the international scene. The 14 clones described … Read Introduction or download the document.

Research Report 4

The aim of this study was to develop a general level of understanding concerning the functioning of the market for two underutilised crops: beli (Aegle marmelos) and wood-apple (Feronia limonia), and to identify ... [read the full summary] or download the document [PDF 1MB]

Position Paper 2

The International Centre for Underutilised Crops promotes the use of underutilised plant species. In so doing, it is concerned with developing agricultural landscapes and markets that work for smallholder farmers...[read the full summary] or download the document [PDF 691Kb]

Strategic Framework

This document provides a Strategic Framework for research and develop-ment activities with underutilized plants for Asia, including the Pacific Islands, and for Sub-Saharan Africa. With a vision to 2020, it is intended to provide guidance… [read the full summary] or download the document [PDF 1060Kb]