Ancient and modern grains: effects on human health: A first short review

Abstract

A short review concerning the distinction between ancient and modern grains or ancient and modern varieties of wheat, cereals and pseudocereals, along with their quality related mainly to human health and that of the environment is provided. Modern plant breeding, especially that started before the Green Revolution, based mainly on gross selection and very few crosses among local varieties/populations may be considered ancient grains, while those obtained after the Green revolution, based on intensive and multiple crosses among local and foreign varieties, including those obtained by induced mutation, may be considered modern grains. According to recent researches, it seems that ancient grains are healthier than the modern ones. The former would also have a lower environmental and agricultural impact than the latter. Since the picture on this topic is not yet clear I was asked to throw on it more light. In fact, most of researchers in the field do not understand difference among ancient and modern varieties. Thus, the objective of this short paper was to clarify and stimulate more research, possibly with a multidisciplinary approach. In Italy, for instance, there are ad hoc research projects that should be more adequately financed and supported, during their development. To make it easy, I have mentioned and listed more than thirty references.