Implications For Food Security Research Articles

Understanding the impact of elevated CO2 and O3 on growth and yield in Indian wheat cultivars: Implications for food security in a changing climate

Understanding the impact of elevated CO2 and O3 on growth and yield in Indian wheat cultivars: Implications for food security in a changing climate

Assessing impact of elevated CO2 on heavy metal accumulation in crops: meta-analysis and implications for food security

Human activities led to elevation in carbon dioxide (CO2) concentrations in atmosphere. While such increase per se may be beneficial for the growth of some crops, it comes with a caveat of affecting crop nutritional status. Here, we present a comprehensive analysis of changes in concentration of essential (Cu, Fe, Mn, Zn, Mo, Ni) and non-essential (Ba, Cd, Cr, Hg, Pb, and Sr) heavy metals in response to elevated CO2, drawing on a meta-analysis of 1216 paired observations. The major findings are as follows: (1) Elevated CO2 leads to reduced concentrations of Cu, Fe, Mn, and Zn in crops; (2) the extent of above reduction varies among plants species and is most pronounced in cereals and then in legumes and vegetables; (3) reduction in accumulation of non-essential (toxic) metals is less pronounced, potentially leading to an unfavorable essential/non-essential metal ratio in plants; (4) the above effects will come with significant implication to human health, exacerbating effects of the “hidden hunger” caused by the lack of Fe and Zn in the human diets. The paper also analyses the mechanistic basis of nutrient acquisition (both at physiological and molecular levels) and calls for the changes in the governmental policies to increase efforts of plant breeders to create genotypes with improved nutrient use efficiency for essential micronutrients while uncoupling their transport from non-essential (toxic) heavy metals.

Integrating fruit by-products and whey for the design of folate-bioenriched innovative fermented beverages safe for human consumption

Global concerns over folate deficiency, the risks of excessive synthetic folic acid consumption, and food loss implications for environmental sustainability and food security drive needs of innovative approaches that align food by-product valorisation with folate bio-enrichment. This study explored the use of three fruit by-products extracts (grape, passion fruit, and pitaya) and whey to develop a folate bio-enriched fermented whey-based beverage. Three strains (Lacticaseibacillus rhamnosus LGG, Bifidobacterium infantis BB-02, and Streptococcus thermophilus TH-4) were tested for folate production in different fermentation conditions in modified MRS medium and in a whey-based matrix prepared with water extracts of these fruit by-products. B. infantis BB-02 and S. thermophilus TH-4, alone and in co-culture, were the best folate producers. The selection of cultivation conditions, including the presence of different substrates and pH, with grape by-product water extract demonstrating the most substantial effect on folate production among the tested extracts, was crucial for successfully producing a biofortified fermented whey-based beverage (FWBB). The resulting FWBB provided 40.7 μg of folate per 100 mL after 24 h of fermentation at 37 °C, effectively leveraging food by-products. Moreover, the beverage showed no cytotoxicity in mouse fibroblast cells tests. This study highlights the potential for valorising fruit by-products and whey for the design of novel bioenriched foods, promoting health benefits and contributing to reduced environmental impact from improper disposal.

Zai Pits as a Climate-Smart Agriculture Technique in Southern Kenya: Maize Success Is Influenced More by Manure Than Depth

In semi-arid southern Kenya, climate change is putting rainfed agriculture at risk with major implications for food security. The zai pit, a Climate-Smart Agriculture (CSA) technique, has proven to enhance yields in arid regions, but its labor demands have limited adoption rates. This study assessed how the zai pit depth and manure application within zai pits influenced maize (Zea mays) success (i.e., growth, development, and productivity). Three zai pit treatments were prepared at the Wildlife Works Research Center in southeastern Kenya: (1) deep (50 cm) with manure; (2) shallow (25 cm) with manure; and (3) deep (50 cm) without manure, and all were compared to a non-zai pit control (surface planting). Maize growth/development (e.g., height, stage, roots) and productivity (e.g., yield) measurements were taken over two growing periods. For most measures, shallow zai pits performed equally as well as deep zai pits, with both performing better than the control. Zai pits without manure performed significantly worse than zai pits with manure, oftentimes not differing from the control. Results suggest that maize success is influenced more by manure than the depth of the pit. Kenyan farmers are encouraged to dig shallower, manure-enriched zai pits to enhance food security in response to climate change.

Cocoa vs. food crops: smallholder’s seasonal food access and extension support for climate adaptation in Ghana

ABSTRACT The food security implications of the production of cocoa compared to food crops and the phenomenon of the lean season amongst smallholder farmers have been well-researched. Yet, the literature has yet to consider how climate variability affects these dynamics. This study addresses this gap by comparing the contributions of cocoa and food crops to food stability and access during extreme and erratic weather events. It then compares government extension support for households’ climate adaptation of these crops. Our data draw on the case of smallholder cocoa farmers in Ghana’s Central Region and comprise a survey of 250 households, 16 focus group discussions, and 81 semi-structured interviews with smallholders, market sellers, and government officials. We find that food crops are essential for households’ food access during the cocoa lean season and when cocoa yields are reduced by climate change-related extreme or erratic weather events. However, food crop yields are themselves negatively affected by climate variability impacts. Furthermore, many farmers lack climate adaptation strategies or support for food crops as government extension services focus instead on export-driven cocoa. We argue that to promote households’ food stability, more smallholder extension support for food crop production and climate adaptation is urgently needed.

The Role of Basic Infrastructure to Strengthen Economic Security in Eastern Indonesia

This study aims to analyze the role of water infrastructure in supporting the development of leading commodities in Maluku and Papua, Indonesia. The 2020 Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) dataset will be analyzed using the Location Quotient (LQ) technique to determine the leading sectors/base commodities with comparative advantages in the Maluku and Papua Provinces. Based on the Location Quotient (LQ) analysis results, it will be combined with a spatial approach to provide an overview of water resources and infrastructure. The results of this study show that water resource infrastructure is related to the housing settlement sector and agricultural commodities in Maluku and Papua. Increasing agricultural productivity has positive implications for Indonesia's food and economic security. Investment in water infrastructure development is needed to support leading sectors.

Hidden Secrets of Mangrove Swamp Rice Stored Seeds in Guinea-Bissau: Assessment of Fungal Communities and Implications for Food Security

Hidden Secrets of Mangrove Swamp Rice Stored Seeds in Guinea-Bissau: Assessment of Fungal Communities and Implications for Food Security

The gendered dimensions of small-scale fishing activities: A case study from coastal Kenya

Although women contribute substantially to the small-scale fisheries sector globally, in many countries there is a severe lack of gender-disaggregated data on fishing activities. This gender data gap hampers a comprehensive understanding of small-scale fisheries dynamics with implications for fisheries management and food security. In this study, we investigate women's and men's engagement in small-scale fishing through a case study in coastal Kenya, a region characterized by a high dependence on fisheries for local livelihoods and nutritional needs. We applied a mixed method approach, combining participant observation, photography, semi-structured interviews on gender identities (n = 11) and gendered fishing practices (n = 28), an individual survey (n = 141), and pebble games (n = 35). Our results reveal a marked gendered division of labor across the seascape, with women mostly fishing in intertidal areas and men beyond the reef. Further, we find that women's fishing practices are characterized by less fishing gear, less catch, a lower functional diversity of catches, less fishing effort, and less income than those of men. However, women's catches contribute significantly to local diets, accounting for up to 50% of the fish and seafood consumed in fisherwomen-headed households. Despite women's fishing activities appearing less productive and profitable that those of men, they are important for achieving food security in Kenyan coastal communities. Results from this study contribute to broadening our understanding of the gendered dimensions of small-scale fishing and highlight relevant information for developing gender-inclusive management strategies. We conclude by providing key recommendations for fisheries research, management, and governance.

Farmers -Herders Rivalry and Its Implications for Food Security and Household Income in Nigeria: Interrogating the trending issues

Farmers -Herders Rivalry and Its Implications for Food Security and Household Income in Nigeria: Interrogating the trending issues

Physiological and Biochemical Responses of Maize to Elevated CO2 Concentrations: Implications for Growth and Metabolism

Rising atmospheric CO2 levels, a significant consequence of anthropogenic activities, profoundly impact global agriculture and food security by altering plant physiological processes. Despite extensive research, a comprehensive understanding of the specific effects of elevated CO2 on maize (Zea mays L.)’s primary and secondary metabolism remains elusive. This study investigated the responses of maize seedlings cultivated in open-top chambers (OTCs) under three CO2 concentrations: ambient (380 ppm), elevated (600 ppm), and high (1800 ppm). Key growth parameters, including plant height, leaf area, and aboveground biomass (leaf and stem), were assessed alongside metabolic profiles encompassing nonstructural and structural carbohydrates, syringyl (S) and guaiacyl lignin, the syringyl-to-guaiacyl (S/G)-lignin ratio, photosynthetic pigments, total soluble protein, and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The results demonstrated that exposure to 600 ppm CO2 significantly enhanced plant height, leaf area, and aboveground biomass compared to ambient conditions. Concurrently, there were notable increases in the concentrations of primary metabolites. In contrast, exposure to 1800 ppm CO2 severely inhibited these growth parameters and induced reductions in secondary metabolites, such as chlorophyll and soluble proteins, throughout the growth stages. The findings underscore the intricate responses of maize metabolism to varying CO2 levels, highlighting adaptive strategies in primary and secondary metabolism under changing atmospheric conditions. This research contributes to a nuanced understanding of maize’s physiological adaptations to future climate scenarios characterized by elevated CO2, with implications for sustainable agriculture and food security.

Wholesome Grains in Every Bite: Quinoa Pancake Premix Innovation

The demand for healthier and more nutritious breakfast options has increased, leading to the development of quinoa pancake premixes. Quinoa is a promising ingredient due to its low environmental impact and cultural significance in indigenous cuisines. Its high protein content makes it an excellent choice for plant-based protein sources and its rich fiber, vitamins, and minerals make it an ideal choice for those seeking plant-based protein. Quinoa pancake premixes also have implications for global food security and economic development. As a high-value crop, quinoa production supports smallholder farmers' livelihoods, providing income diversification and poverty alleviation. By integrating quinoa into value-added food products like pancake mixes, economic opportunities can be extended along the entire value chain, promoting inclusive growth in rural communities.Quinoa pancake premixes can address micronutrient deficiencies and food insecurity, particularly in vulnerable populations. By fortifying pancake mixes with micronutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins, these products contribute to public health initiatives aimed at combating malnutrition.The formulation process involves balancing ingredients to achieve desired texture, flavor, and nutritional profile. Researchers experiment with various flavor combinations to enhance the taste profile of quinoa pancakes. Market trends reveal a growing demand for quinoa-based products, catering to diverse dietary preferences and offering gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb options. In conclusion, quinoa pancake premix development represents a convergence of culinary innovation, nutritional science, and market trends. By harnessing quinoa's nutritional potency and leveraging advancements in food technology, researchers and food manufacturers can create wholesome breakfast solutions for health-conscious consumers.

Widening global variability in grassland biomass since the 1980s.

Global change is associated with variable shifts in the annual production of aboveground plant biomass, suggesting localized sensitivities with unclear causal origins. Combining remotely sensed normalized difference vegetation index data since the 1980s with contemporary field data from 84 grasslands on 6 continents, we show a widening divergence in site-level biomass ranging from +51% to -34% globally. Biomass generally increased in warmer, wetter and species-rich sites with longer growing seasons and declined in species-poor arid areas. Phenological changes were widespread, revealing substantive transitions in grassland seasonal cycling. Grazing, nitrogen deposition and plant invasion were prevalent in some regions but did not predict overall trends. Grasslands are undergoing sizable changes in production, with implications for food security, biodiversity and carbon storage especially in arid regions where declines are accelerating.

Economics of sustainable irrigation in smallholder agriculture: implications for food security and climate action

Economics of sustainable irrigation in smallholder agriculture: implications for food security and climate action

Analisis Hukum Kebijakan Pemerintah dalam Memajukan Kemandirian Lokal: Perspektif Ketahanan Pangan Nasional

National food security is one of the crucial issues or problem that is the focus of government attention in order to ensure the availability, access, and quality of food for the entire community. Government policies that support local independence are believed to have an important role in achieving sustainable food security. This study aims to analyze government policies from a legal perspective in advancing local independence and their implications for national food security. The methodology used in this study is normative legal analysis with a descriptive approach. The data used comes from primary sources such as laws and regulations and related policies, as well as secondary sources in the form of literature and other supporting documents. The analysis is carried out to identify policies that have been implemented, evaluate their effectiveness, and the legal implications that arise. The results of the study show that there are a number of policies that have been implemented by the government to advance local independence, but there are still various challenges in their implementation. Several policies that are effective at the local level have not been fully integrated with national policies, which causes a lack of harmony in achieving food security. In addition, this study found that the legal aspects of the policy still need improvement to support the sustainability of local independence in the long term. The conclusion of this study emphasizes the importance of strengthening a more integrated legal and policy framework that focuses on local empowerment. Recommendations are given to policy makers to improve existing regulations, improve coordination between institutions, and encourage local community participation in efforts to achieve sustainable national food security.

Promoting sustainable agrifood production under climate change: adaptation, returns, and food security implications

ABSTRACT Climate change is challenging sustainable agrifood production and food security, and encouraging farmers’ climate change adaptation can help promote sustainable agrifood production and ensure food security. This study investigates farmers’ climate change adaptation and its impact on agrifood production. We employ the propensity score matching (PSM) model to address the selection bias issue of climate change adaptation and estimate the survey data collected from 415 rice-producing households in rural China. We also estimate the inverse probability weighted regression adjustment (IPWRA) model for robustness check. The empirical results show that farmers’ decisions on climate change adaptation are influenced by household heads’ age, education level, life satisfaction, temperature perception, and transportation conditions. The treatment effect estimations of the PSM model reveal that climate change adaptation significantly increases land productivity by 41.24–44.29% and labor productivity by 55.06–63.72% in rice production. The IPWRA model estimation largely confirms the robustness of the PSM model estimation. We also find that climate change adaptation significantly increases the net returns of rice production. These findings have significant global implications. By understanding the factors influencing farmers’ decisions to adapt to climate change, policymakers worldwide can design targeted interventions to encourage similar practices in other regions. Promoting farmers’ climate change adaptation to increase farm productivity is crucial for ensuring global food security in the face of ongoing climate challenges.

Cyanide in cassava: Understanding the drivers, impacts of climate variability, and strategies for food security

AbstractThe consumption of cassava, a vital staple food for more than 1 billion people worldwide, holds particular significance in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). Expansion in cassava production in SSA is driven by increasing market demand, local consumption, and adaptability to diverse environments. However, cyanide concentration in cassava tubers and products across SSA ranges from 9 to 1148 ppm – most exceed the World Health Organisation's recommended safe level of 10 ppm. Such variation and high cyanide concentrations in cassava products are expected to be exacerbated by climate‐induced increases in the frequency, intensity and occurrence of drought, heat waves and biotic stresses, further jeopardising regional food security. Thus, it is essential to examine cassava production and cyanide toxicity under climate change and their implications for food security in SSA. In this review, we look at the drivers of cassava production and spatial variation in cyanide concentrations across SSA, impacts of climate variability and biotic stresses on cassava cyanide concentrations in SSA, and crop management practices for reducing cyanogenic glucosides in cassava tubers. We surmise that urgent actions are required to adopt improved cassava varieties and management strategies that reduce cassava cyanide toxicity amid climate‐induced challenges in SSA.

Gendered aspiration among rural youths in agriculture: Implications for food security in Delta State, Nigeria

This research investigates gendered aspirations among rural youths in agriculture and examines their implications for food security in Delta State, Nigeria. A multi-stage sampling procedure was adopted to compose a sample focusing on understanding the distinct aspirations of male and female youths in the agricultural sector. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire from 200 respondents and interview conducted for this study. Data generated from the study were processed and analyzed with percentages of their educational qualifications and age groups, and the hypothesis was tested with t-test statistics at 0.05 level of significance. The research reveals nuanced differences in the aspirations of male and female rural youths, shedding light on factors influencing their aspirations in agriculture, such as educational level, age group, access to resources, and societal expectations. Findings indicate that 61.50% majority were female while 38.50% were male. At the same time, both gender express a keen interest in contributing to the agricultural sector. There are significant differences between young men and women as young women expressed more aspirations in agriculture than young men, directly impacting food security as inequality of young men and women's participation and involvement will affect availability and access to food. Based on these findings, it was recommended that Delta State government should promote the active involvement of young men and women in leadership roles within agricultural organizations and decision-making processes; this can contribute to more inclusive policies and strategies that address the gendered aspects of agricultural aspirations.

Analysis of the volatility of the price of cassava in Cameroon: implications for food security

With a contribution of up to 71% to CEMAC production, Cameroon is one of the major producers of cassava and taro, accounting for more than 83% of root and tuber production. It is the 11th largest producer in the world and the 4th in Africa. Cassava is a vital food source for over 500 million people, ranking as the third-largest source of calories in the tropics after rice and maize. Its importance as a source of income for the majority of poor rural farmers in Cameroon cannot be overstated. However, there has been a persistent increase in the prices of cassava and other food commodities in Cameroon. This study was designed to investigate the determinants of cassava price volatility in Cameroon over the period 1994-2022. The TAR-MTAR method was employed in this study. Our results showed that cassava prices increased significantly by an average of 46% annually, with a volatility level of 30.8% annually and 177.8% over the entire period (1994-2022). This indicates that cassava prices have been rising rapidly and unpredictably, which can have various implications for consumers, farmers, and the economy as a whole. The research demonstrated that cassava price volatility occurred at the beginning, middle, and end of the year due to factors such as climate change, cassava yield, and interest rates. It has been suggested that the government should implement a mapping policy and selling models to ensure a stable supply of cassava.

Artificial Intelligence on Food Vulnerability: Future Implications within a Framework of Opportunities and Challenges

This study explores the field of artificial intelligence (AI) through the lens of Stephen Hawking, who warned of its potential dangers. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of AI and its implications for food security using a qualitative approach and offering a contemporary perspective on the topic. The study explores the challenges and opportunities presented by AI in various fields with an emphasis on the global food reality. It also highlights the critical importance of striking a harmonious balance between technological progress and the preservation of local wisdom, cultural diversity, and environmental sustainability. In conclusion, the analysis argues that AI is a transformative force with the potential to address global food shortages and facilitate sustainable food production. However, it is not without significant risks that require rigorous scrutiny and ethical oversight.

Rural-urban transition and food security in India

As a growing proportion of world's population lives in cities and towns, food security is increasingly acquiring an urban character. The locus of food security research and policy agendas has correspondingly expanded from rural areas to include urban centres in recent years. However, the dominant discourse on urbanization-food security relationship appears to be shaped by perspectives from the Global North and large cities, and disregards urbanization-food security nexus in small towns of the Global South. This paper aims to correct this bias. With a focus on India where urbanization is increasingly concentrated in small, former rural regions, this paper looks at the food security implications of country's rural-urban transition and advances a conceptual framework to understand the food security impacts of peripheral urbanization.