Enhance Food Security Research Articles

Vertical farming in urban environments: A review of architectural integration and food security

Vertical farming in urban environments has emerged as a promising solution to address the challenges of food security while efficiently utilizing limited urban spaces. This paper provides a comprehensive review of the architectural integration of vertical farming systems and their impact on enhancing food security. Urbanization and population growth have led to increased pressure on traditional agriculture, necessitating innovative approaches to meet the rising demand for food. Vertical farming involves cultivating crops in vertically stacked layers or inclined surfaces within controlled environments, such as skyscrapers, warehouses, or specially designed structures. The integration of vertical farming into urban architecture is a multifaceted endeavor that involves considerations of space utilization, energy efficiency, and sustainable practices. Architectural integration plays a pivotal role in the success of vertical farming systems. This review explores various design strategies employed in integrating vertical farms into urban landscapes, including the incorporation of green walls, modular systems, and adaptive reuse of existing structures. The symbiotic relationship between architecture and agriculture is crucial for optimizing resource utilization, ensuring efficient energy distribution, and minimizing environmental impact. Furthermore, the review addresses the implications of architectural choices on the overall efficiency and scalability of vertical farming. It examines the role of technology in creating smart, automated farming systems that can be seamlessly integrated into urban structures. The integration of sensors, artificial intelligence, and robotics enhances precision farming, resulting in higher yields and resource efficiency. A significant focus of the paper is on the implications of vertical farming for food security. By bringing food production closer to urban centers, vertical farming reduces the reliance on long-distance transportation, minimizing carbon footprints and enhancing the resilience of food supply chains. Additionally, the controlled environment of vertical farms mitigates the impact of climate variability on crop yields, contributing to more stable and secure food production. In conclusion, this paper synthesizes the current knowledge on the integration of vertical farming into urban architecture, emphasizing its role in addressing food security challenges. The review underscores the importance of innovative architectural approaches and technological advancements in realizing the full potential of vertical farming for sustainable and secure urban food production.

Do internal and external risk spillovers of the food system matter for national food security?

The COVID-19 pandemic and the Russia-Ukraine war raise concerns about food security, particularly in interconnected and vulnerable food systems. However, existing literature focuses mainly on food supply-chain linkages and less on systemic risk spillovers, namely system-wide risk contagion among food companies. We estimate countries' internal and external risk spillovers using the “Vector Auto-Regressive (VAR) for Value-at-Risk (VaR)” approach with an Elastic Net penalty and the stock returns of 528 food companies, and analyze their impacts on national food security using country-level panel data. Results reveal that both risk spillovers significantly threaten food security, especially for countries with low food self-sufficiency and high import concentration levels. Beyond non-financial channels like higher food consumer prices, fewer food imports, and lower food quality, these impacts also rely on financial channels (reduced credit flows to agriculture). Our study highlights enhancing food security for governments by monitoring and reducing risk contagion among food companies.

Redistribution of nitrogen to feed the people on a safer planet.

Lack of nitrogen limits food production in poor countries while excessive nitrogen use in industrial countries has led to transgression of the planetary boundary. However, the potential of spatial redistribution of nitrogen input for food security when returning to the safe boundary has not been quantified in a robust manner. Using an emulator of a global gridded crop model ensemble, we found that redistribution of current nitrogen input to major cereals among countries can double production in the most food-insecure countries, while increasing global production of these crops by 12% with no notable regional loss or reducing the nitrogen input to the current production by one-third. Redistribution of the input within the boundary increased production by 6-8% compared to the current relative distribution, increasing production in the food-insecure countries by two-thirds. Our findings provide georeferenced guidelines for redistributing nitrogen use to enhance food security while safeguarding the planet.

Analysis of interplay between food safety systems and halal standards in Indonesia

The present work aimed to develop a comprehensive certification process for halal food products within the Indonesian agribusiness, which integrates food safety and halal standards. The objective was to reduce financial barriers, certification burden, and workforce shortages currently impeding the establishment of quality halal food supply chains. To achieve this aim, Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM) was used to elucidate the complex relationships between decision variables in the halal certification process. Data collection included interviews with sectoral experts overseeing food safety and halal compliance. The present work identified 17 strategic variables crucial to integrating the Halal Assurance System (HAS) with food safety using ISM analysis. The findings of the ISM model showed 11 hierarchical levels of integration between the HAS and food safety, identifying key factors influencing produce security mechanisms. Additionally, the present work emphasised the significance of transparency, proper handling of produce, and efficient certification processes for businesses operating in the global food sector. This proposed framework not only offers practical guidance for enhancing food security, but also correlated certification processes with supply chain objectives, thereby bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Implementation Strategy of the Agriculture and Food Security Service to Enhance Food Security in Lebak District

Implementation Strategy of the Agriculture and Food Security Service to Enhance Food Security in Lebak District

The Major Potential of Non-Conventional Feed Resources in Poultry Nutrition in Ethiopia: A Review

This review was conducted with the objective of assessing the major potential of non-conventional feed resources in poultry nutrition in Ethiopia. Ethiopia has a vast array of non-conventional feed resources that can be utilized in poultry nutrition. These resources have the potential to significantly contribute This review was conducted with the objective of assessing the major potential of non-conventional feed resources to the growth and development of the poultry industry in the country. Potentially available of non-conventional feed resources (NCFR) include plant materials, such as the leaves and seeds of Moringa, Cassava, Taro leaf, Mango seed kernels, Pigeon pea, potato peel and leaf and agro-industrial by-products like, Rice bran, Filter sugar cake and brewery grain. Most of these feedstuff materials are low in energy, protein and minerals. These feed resource contain high amounts of anti-nutritional component. Appropriate processing methods like soaking, boiling, or fermenting can help reduce these anti-nutritional factors, enhancing the digestibility and utilization of NCFR in poultry diets. There are also several challenges and limitations that need to be addressed in order to fully exploit the potential of these feed resources. Some of the common problems are like limited knowledge and awareness, lack of processing and preservation techniques, limited availability and seasonal variations, lack of infrastructure and storage facilities and limited research and data. To addressing these challenges through research, extension services, and policy support can help unlock the full potential of non-conventional feed resources in poultry nutrition in Ethiopia. This would not only contribute to improved productivity and profitability in the poultry sector but also enhance food security and sustainable agricultural practices in the country.

Feasibility of using bean crop residues for feeding sheep during dry season shortage: implications for economic and environmental resilience

ABSTRACT In Cuba, beans are part of the traditional gastronomy and livelihood of the people. During bean harvest, farmers generate high volumes of stubble, which they burn, thus adversely affecting soil health and organic matter, air quality, and greenhouse gas emissions. Bean harvest occurs during the dry season, a period of feed shortage for livestock, such that integrating farming and livestock production could be a way to feed and fatten sheep at little cost. We assessed the feasibility of feeding bean stubble to sheep by determining 1) volumes produced and nutritional value of stubble, 2) acceptability, performance, and carcass yields of lambs fed stubble, and 3) feasibility for this integrated farming-livestock system at local and regional levels. During harvest, 650 tons of stubble are produced in the municipality of Morón by 190 farmers, which represents a potential to feed more than 3,500 lambs, with acceptable average daily gains of 90 g per day with minimal supplementation. We thus affirm this is a viable technological practice with economic, ecological, and social implications as an acceptable alternative to burning stubble to enhance food security and livelihoods of small and medium-sized farms, while generating new employment opportunities, especially for rural women. Future studies are needed to evaluate the economic, ecological, and social impacts of this agriculture-livestock integration technology.

Bacillus thuringiensis promotes systemic immunity in tomato, controlling pests and pathogens and promoting yield

AbstractPlant pathogens and pests pose an increasing threat to worldwide food security. To improve and strengthen food security under increasingly difficult environmental, economic, and geopolitical conditions, the prospect of using microbial biocontrol agents becomes increasingly desirable. One of the most studied, and commercially used, biopesticide microorganisms is the entomopathogenic, gram-positive, soil bacterium Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt). While Bt has been known for many years as an insecticidal microorganism and used extensively in agriculture, its possible anti-phytopathogen and plant growth-promoting activities have received comparatively limited attention thus far. Here, we examine the ability of Bt to promote systemic immunity in tomato plants. We investigate how Bt influences plant immunity and disease resistance against several fungal and bacterial plant pathogens, as well as several arthropod pests. In order to determine which component of Bt (i.e., Bt spores or pure crystals) is responsible for the observed effects on pathogens or pests, we dissected the different fractions present in a commercial preparation and assessed their effects on pest and pathogen control. As previously reported in the Bt literature, our results indicate that proteins produced by Bt are likely the primary acting components against pests. In the case of pathogens, however, it appears that both the Bt spores and proteins directly act against pathogens such as the fungus Botrytis cinerea. Bt Spores and produced proteins also both induce plant immunity. Understanding the different Bt mode of action mechanisms will help in developing cost-effective and safe plant protection strategies for enhancing food security. Taken together, our findings suggest that Bt could be used in broad-spectrum pest and disease management strategies. Pending validation in agricultural settings, Bt products on the market could have additional uses in sustainable pest management and plant growth promotion.

Peran Agroforestri Dalam Mendukung Pengelolaan Sumberdaya Alam Berkelanjutan

Agroforestry, a farming system that integrates various types of perennial and seasonal crops, as well as livestock elements, has emerged as an alternative in many regions to enhance farmers' income, protect the environment, and address local economic challenges. The role of agroforestry in supporting sustainable natural resource management is crucial. This system helps maintain soil fertility, reduce erosion, regulate hydrological patterns, sequester carbon, and enhance biodiversity. Moreover, agroforestry also contributes to improving farmers' food security through diverse and sustainable yields, as well as strengthening the economic and social sustainability of communities. Despite some challenges in increasing agroforestry productivity, its implementation is expected to address issues related to forest land conversion, enhance food security, and make a significant contribution to maintaining environmental balance and overall community welfare.

Genetic Variability and Character Association Studies in Diverse Rice (Oryza sativa L.) Genotypes for Agro-Morphological Traits in Terai Region of West Bengal

Aims: The study aims to analyze the genetic variability in diverse rice genotypes and establish correlations with grain yield and its attributes. By identifying and quantifying the genetic elements influencing grain yield and associated traits, the research intends to offer insights for developing high-yielding and resilient rice varieties, ultimately enhancing food security and agricultural sustainability. Study Design: The experiment was set up in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with two replications, using a spacing of 20 cm × 15 cm. Place and Duration of Study: The experiment was conducted at the Instructional Farm of Uttar Banga Krishi Viswavidyalaya, Pundibari, Cooch Behar, West Bengal during the Kharif season (the period from June to October) of 2019 and 2020. The duration of the study encompassed the entire Kharif seasons of both years. Methodology: The study evaluated forty-two diverse rice genotypes based on nine agro-morphological traits. The methodology encompassed the utilization of ANOVA to evaluate significant differences in trait means and discern genetic variability among rice genotypes. Central tendency and variability were assessed through the calculation of mean, range, and standard deviation to gain insights into genetic variation. Furthermore, variation among traits was quantified using phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation to aid in understanding genetic variability. Heritability in broad sense was estimated to ascertain the genetic contribution to the observed variation, while the identification of traits with potential for improvement was achieved through the analysis of genetic advance as percent of mean. Furthermore, correlation and path coefficient analyses were conducted to comprehend the connections between the agro-morphological traits and grain yield, offering insights into the genetic relationships among the traits and their direct and indirect impacts on grain yield patterns. Results: The analysis of variance results confirmed the presence of significant differences among the evaluated genotypes. The phenotypic coefficient of variation displayed elevated values, closely associated with the genotypic coefficient of variation for all traits. Both phenotypic and genotypic coefficient of variation values were observed to be low to moderate for all the nine traits. Furthermore, specific traits such as grain breadth, panicles plant-1, and grain L/B ratio exhibited high heritability and high genetic advance percentage of mean, indicating their potential for selection and improvement in breeding programs. Additionally, the correlation study at the genotypic level revealed positive and significant correlations between grain yield plant-1, test weight, and spikelet fertility. Moreover, the path coefficient analysis showed that grain length had the maximum positive direct effect on grain yield plant-1. Conclusion: In conclusion, the analysis revealed significant genotype variations across multiple traits, indicating potential for targeted breeding improvements. Traits like grain breadth, panicles plant-1, and grain L/B ratio showed promising heritability and genetic advancement, emphasizing their value for selection in breeding programs. Correlation and path coefficient analyses highlighted interrelationships and direct effects on yield, underlining the importance of genetic factors in trait expression.

Circular bioeconomy practices and their associations with household food security in four RUNRES African city regions

Achieving the United Nation’s 2030 agenda which aims, among other goals, to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns, requires a sustainable resource use model deployed at scale across global food systems. A circular bioeconomy (CBE) model of resource use has been proposed to reuse of organic waste in agricultural production to enhance food security. However, despite several initiatives recently introduced towards establishing a CBE in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), minimal scientific efforts have been dedicated to understanding the association of CBE practices and food security. This study use data from 777 smallholder farm households from DRC, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and South Africa, to examine associations between three CBE practices (use of organic waste as compost, as livestock feed, and sorting waste) and household food security. Using different regression and propensity score matching models (PSM). Result reveal that using CBE practices more likely adds a 0.203 score of food insecurity access prevalence (HFIAP), 1.283 food insecurity access scale (HFIAS-score) and 0.277 for household dietary diversity score (HDDS) among households using CBE practiced groups. Associations regarding using organic waste as compost are generally positive but insignificant, while those with sorting waste are significantly and consistently negative. Thus, CBE innovations aiming to enhance household food security could prioritize organic waste valorization into livestock feed consider socio economic aspects such as access to land, access to market, education level, using mobile phone, income and city regions where interventions took place. However, prior sorting of waste is necessary to enable effective waste valorization.

Sustainable Agriculture Education Programs in Uganda: Successes, Challenges, and Impact

This review explores the necessity and effectiveness of sustainable agriculture education programs in Uganda, focusing on integrated, experiential learning approaches. It highlights the Agro-ecology Summer Residency Program initiated by Sustainable Agriculture in Uganda (SAI) and other educational initiatives aimed at village farmers. The study examines the benefits of these programs in terms of improved crop yields, environmental conservation, and economic empowerment. Challenges in implementing such programs, including limited access to resources and lack of awareness, are discussed alongside collaborative approaches for success. The impact of sustainable agriculture education on rural communities is assessed, emphasizing enhanced food security, increased income generation, and improved livelihoods. Keywords: Sustainable agriculture, education, village farmers and economic empowerment

Bridging the Knowledge Gap: Enhancing Awareness among Farmers about Millet Cultivation

Millet cultivation plays a crucial role in enhancing food security and promoting sustainable agriculture through its climate-resilient nature and nutrient-rich composition, contributing to both environmental and human well-being. However, the cultivation of millet has witnessed a decline in recent decades due to a lack of awareness among farmers about its benefits and importance, resulting in a knowledge and information gap. To address this issue, intervention programmes have been designed with specific methods like workshops, field demonstrations, and the distribution of educational materials to empower farmers with knowledge about the nutritional, economic, health, and environmental advantages of millets. This study was conducted in ten villages in Kodumudi blocks in Erode district, Tamil Nadu, to assess the reasons for farmers' hesitation in cultivating millets and to evaluate the impact of the intervention programme on their knowledge and attitudes towards millet cultivation and its health benefits. The results indicate significant correlations between age, education, farm size, farm experience and the reasons for not cultivating millets. The study investigated the impact of an intervention programme on farmers' knowledge and attitudes towards millet cultivation. Pre- and post-intervention data were collected from 477 farmers. The findings revealed significant improvements in farmers' knowledge levels after the programme, with a mean score increase from 48.57 to 52.26. Similarly, attitudes towards millet cultivation showed positive changes, with mean scores rising from 93.86 to 100.46. Results revealed the effectiveness of the programme in promoting informed and sustainable agricultural practices. The findings highlight the importance of enhancing awareness among farmers about the benefits and best practices of millet cultivation to foster its adoption and leverage its numerous advantages.

Unveiling Digital Transformation: A Catalyst for Enhancing Food Security and Achieving Sustainable Development Goals at the European Union Level.

The digital revolution is reshaping various aspects of society, including having a profound impact on food security and the advancement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This study investigates the relationship between digital transformation, quantified through the components of the Digital Economy and Society Index (DESI), and SDGs related to food (SDG1, SDG2, SDG3, and SDG10), along with the overall SDG Index score. The data used for investigation are sourced from reports issued by the European Commission concerning DESI, as well as the SDG reports for the period from 2017 to 2022. The paper elucidates how different components of digitalization, such as connectivity, digital skills, internet usage, and digital public services, influence the attainment of food security objectives and broader sustainable development targets using structural equation modeling and cluster analysis. The findings underscore the pivotal role of digital technologies in enhancing poverty alleviation, health and well-being, and, in particular, mitigating inequality. This study contributes to understanding the complex relationship between digital transformation and food security, offering insights for policymakers, practitioners, and stakeholders aiming to leverage technology for advancing SDGs and fostering a more equitable and sustainable future.

Amino acid composition of proteins and technological indicators of grain quality of genotypes and varieties of spring soft wheat in northern Kazakhstan

The purpose of the paper was to carry out a biochemical and technological evaluation of spring soft wheat grain and to determine the total amino acid composition for the selection of the most valuable genotypes with a high content of essential amino acids. This paper presents the results of biochemical and technological studies of the grain and flour of spring soft wheat plants grown in northern Kazakhstan. The research involved 170 genotypes of spring soft wheat from northern Kazakhstan, 16 of which had the highest grain quality. In the grains of the studied samples, the protein content and the number of essential and nonessential amino acids were determined, and the biological value of the protein was evaluated using the amino acid score method. A strong positive correlation was established between phenylalanine and lysine (r = 0.98), and a weak negative relationship was established between protein content and methionine (r = -0.02) and between methionine and lysine (r = -0.17). Based on the obtained data, the most valuable varieties and lines (256/14 and 53/14) with high-quality information about grain, flour, and bread and the most balanced amino acid composition of proteins were selected because these varieties are important for enhancing the nutritional value and overall utility of these wheat varieties in food production and human consumption. The utilization of such genotypes in breeding programs and agricultural practices holds the promise of yielding crops with improved protein quality and nutritional content, ultimately contributing to enhanced food security and dietary health in the region

Small particles, big effects: How nanoparticles can enhance plant growth in favorable and harsh conditions.

By 2050, the global population is projected to reach 9 billion, underscoring the imperative for innovative solutions to increase grain yield and enhance food security. Nanotechnology has emerged as a powerful tool, providing unique solutions to this challenge. Nanoparticles (NPs) can improve plant growth and nutrition under normal conditions through their high surface-to-volume ratio and unique physical and chemical properties. Moreover, they can be used to monitor crop health status and augment plant resilience against abiotic stresses (such as salinity, drought, heavy metals, and extreme temperatures) that endanger global agriculture. Application of NPs can enhance stress tolerance mechanisms in plants, minimizing potential yield losses and underscoring the potential of NPs to raise crop yield and quality. This review highlights the need for a comprehensive exploration of the environmental implications and safety of nanomaterials and provides valuable guidelines for researchers, policymakers, and agricultural practitioners. With thoughtful stewardship, nanotechnology holds immense promise in shaping environmentally sustainable agriculture amid escalating environmental challenges.

Promoting Environmental Sustainability Through Vertical Farming: A Review

Vertical farming presents a transformative approach to agriculture with the potential to address pressing environmental sustainability challenges. This abstract explores the role of vertical farming in advancing environmental sustainability. By utilizing innovative techniques like hydroponics and aeroponics, vertical farming optimizes resource use, reduces land footprint, and minimizes environmental impact. Through the vertical stacking of crops in controlled indoor environments, it maximizes land use efficiency and minimizes water consumption compared to traditional farming methods. Moreover, vertical farms located in urban areas reduce transportation emissions by shortening the food supply chain. However, challenges such as high initial investment costs and energy consumption remain barriers to widespread adoption. Collaborative efforts among researchers, policymakers, and industry stakeholders are crucial to overcoming these challenges and scaling up vertical farming practices. Despite obstacles, vertical farming holds significant promise for promoting environmental sustainability by enhancing food security, conserving natural resources, and reducing the ecological footprint of agriculture.

Model-driven Approach to Improve Sago Drying with a Fluidized Bed Dryer

This study presents a model-driven approach to enhance the efficiency of sago drying utilizing a two-dimensional fluidized bed dryer (FBD). ANSYS® DesignModelerTM 2020 R2 software was employed to simulate the drying profile, considering variations in sago bagasse particle diameter (ranging from 500 to 2000 µm), hot air temperature (ranging from 50 to 90 °C), and inlet air velocity (ranging from 1.5 to 2.1 m/s). The simulation results provided valuable insights into the interplay between these critical drying parameters. The model enabled the prediction of moisture content profiles during the sago drying process under different conditions, thereby facilitating comprehension of the system’s behavior. Using Design Expert® 7.00 (DX7), considering energy efficiency and product quality, an optimal set of conditions for sago drying was determined at 2000 µm, 90 °C and 2.1 m/s. This approach not only streamlined the drying process but also significantly reduced energy consumption while ensuring consistent and high-quality sago. The findings of this research offer a practical and sustainable solution for sago producers, which, when applied, can contribute to improved product quality, reduced production costs, and enhanced food security in the region. Furthermore, the model-driven approach and the integration of specialized software tools demonstrate the potential for broader applications in optimizing various drying processes in the food industry.

The importance of small producers and their difficulty in accessing rural credit

The activities carried out by Brazilian family farmers form the foundation for the regional, economic, and social development of the country. Not only do these endeavors generate employment, but they also contribute to an enhancement of food security for the Brazilian population. Therefore, the overall objective of this study is to substantiate the real importance of the small producer and to investigate the primary causes that hinder their access to credit lines, thereby impeding the progression of regional agriculture. The significance of the small producer arises from their role in supplying a larger portion of the national territory with food. Additionally, they produce food free from harmful chemical processes that pose risks to public health, while also significantly reducing environmental degradation compared to the methods employed in large-scale agricultural productions. Regarding the methodological procedures, the research is explanatory, aiming to elucidate the causes that make credit access challenging. Both primary and secondary sources were used. The research can also be considered quantitative, as it involved the analysis of a phenomenon through statistical and theoretical data. In terms of results, a greater difficulty in accessing rural credit lines by small producers was observed. According to the analyses, the lower the income, the more challenging it is for farmers to secure credit. Based on the findings, adjustments and necessary changes in relation to rural credit have been identified.

Free amino acids profile of pulp of Saba senegalensis (A.DC.) Pichon fruit in the three climatic areas of Burkina Faso

Non-timber forest products are often disregarded in favor of primary crops in Burkina Faso, despite their nutritional significance and contribution to food self-sufficiency. However, the lack of scientific information regarding the amino acid content of Saba senegalensis pulp impedes its utilization in various foods production. Consequently, the primary objective of this investigation was to assess the free amino acid profile of S. senegalensis pulp in the three distinct climatic zones of Burkina Faso. Fruit samples were collected from these climatic regions, and the amino acid content was analyzed using HPLC methods. The analysis of S. senegalensis pulp revealed the presence of essential amino acids in mg/100 g, mainly isoleucine (300 ± 75–305 ± 15), leucine (370 ± 92.50–377 ± 95.50), lysine (200 ± 50–205 ± 70), methionine (90 ± 22.50–104 ± 50), phenylalanine (140 ± 35–196 ± 15), threonine (230 ± 57.50–241 ± 27.50), valine (260 ± 65–285 ± 40), and tryptophan (230 ± 57.50–237 ± 75.50), as well as non-essential amino acids. Statistical analysis indicated no significant difference (p > 0,5) in the essential and non-essential amino acids across the climatic zones. According to the revised model spectrum of ideal essential amino acids for humans by the WHO/FAO, the E/T values ranged from 43.12 to 43.40%, and the E/NE values ranged from 75.83 to 76.68%. The BC/E values ranged from 50.69 to 51.09%, while the BC/A values ranged from 1.24 to 1.37. Principal component analysis (PCA) revealed specific variations in the amino acid composition of the fruit pulp based on the climatic zones. This study demonstrates that S. senegalensis is a valuable source of amino acids and can potentially enhance food security.