A manifesto for the valorization of wild edible plants

Abstract

Ethnopharmacological relevance: Wild foods constitute an essential component of people's diets around the world, but despite their widespread use and their cultural importance, wild edible plants (WEPs) lack recognition as significant contributors to the human diet in developed countries.

Materials and methods: We stimulate national and international bodies dealing with food and agriculture, to increase their attention and investments on WEPs, leveraging the results of scientific investigation, enhancing the link between in situ conservation strategies and sustainable use of plant genetic diversity.

Results and conclusions: WEPs should be reconsidered throughout their value chain, capturing their important socio-cultural, health, and economic benefits to indigenous and local communities and family farmers who are engaged in their production and wild-harvesting.

Keywords: Biodiversity; Ethnobotany; Ethnomedicine; Mediterranean diet; Sustainable agriculture; Traditional food; Wild edible plants.