Unlocking the potential of plant‐based foods in sub‐Saharan Africa: a review of the opportunities and challenges

Abstract

SummaryThe continued increase in the global population comes with an increase in the demand for nutritious food. In particular, there is a concurrent increase in the demand for protein‐rich foods as protein is needed for human growth and development. Animal proteins have in the past has been used both in food processing and in the diets due to the exceptional functional properties that range from gelation, emulsification to foaming and water‐holding capacity among others. However, the use of proteins from animal sources has come under heavy criticism due to the impact of animal husbandry on the climate that includes global warming due to increased greenhouse gas emissions. Some of the most affected countries when it comes to global warming are mainly in sub‐Saharan Africa where climate changes have resulted either in prolonged seasons of drought, or flooding and consequently agriculture is severely disrupted. In order to continue feeding the growing population, there has been the use and adoption of alternative proteins such as those of plant origin and the adoption of plant‐based foods in the human diet. These proteins are often viewed to be more sustainable compared to the animal counterparts. Therefore, this review looks at the landscape of plant‐based foods in sub‐Saharan Africa. Additionally, the review looks at the challenges and opportunities that face the plant‐based foods adoption in the sub‐Saharan market.