Title : Non-conventional edible plants in the Brazilian market
Abstract:
Non-conventional edible plants (PANCs, from Portuguese Plantas Alimentícias Não-Convencionais) are species that can serve as functional foods, easy to cultivate, with low technological costs, resistant to pests and diseases, and suitable for family farming. However, they have not yet been widely globalized or structured in a production chain. For example, the species Amaranthus spp. (Amaranth) has approximately 13-15% protein content, Chenopodium quinoa (Quinoa) typically contains about 12-18% protein, Moringa oleifera (Moringa) can vary, but on average it has 20 to 30% protein - these values can vary depending on factors such as soil type, climate, and growing conditions. The objective of this study is to assess the integration of PANC-derived products into the market and the structuring of production chains for the species listed in the National Register of Cultivars (RNC/MAPA). Bibliographic research was conducted using data provided by the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), the Institute of Agriculture, Technical Assistance, and Rural Extension of Espírito Santo (Incaper), the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA), and Web of Science. The study evaluated the PANC production chain in Brazil, the market, products that can be offered, and scientific research on nutritional value and potential uses as pharmaceuticals and consumer goods. There are more than 10,000 species of PANCs in Brazil, but many of these species registered in the RNC/MAPA are not listed in catalogs or on company websites. In terms of the market, there is a growing demand for culinary-interest vegetables. The products sold include fresh produce, seedlings, seeds, ornamental plants, and food and beverages based on these species (flours, cakes, cookies, bread, beer, juices, teas, kombuchas, etc). According to Web of Science, 277 studies have been published on the topic of "non-conventional food plants." These studies range from proposals for production chains, the incorporation of PANCs into recipes, to the evaluation of the chemical compounds with biological activity in the products, among others. Therefore, PANCs have already played an important role in Brazilian culture, and the development of production chains and new products could be promising for the national economy.
Audience Take Away Notes:
- PANCs, or Plants of Non-Conventional Use, are plants with high levels of proteins and minerals, which can be added to the diet of various people
- These plants offer a wide variety of flavors and textures, enabling the development of new recipes and products
- PANCs are resilient plants that can be grown in different environments, providing a possibility to meet the needs of people experiencing food insecurity
