EXPLORATION OF WILD EDIBLES FOR FOOD SECURITY, CURRENT KNOWLEDGE, AND FUTURE PROSPECTS

Abstract

The rapid increase in population and malnutrition is a major challenge for humanity. Factors such as climate change, desertification, loss of biodiversity and rise in water scarcity have adversely affected food security. Wild edibles can play a significant role in food security by contributing to dietary and agricultural biodiversity diversification. Wild edible plants are a potential source of nutraceuticals. These plant species are alternative sources of food and nutrition and possess medicinal properties. The current review focuses on exploring wild edibles for food security.