Climate change is happening, and we have no choice but t adjust our lifestyle accordingly. One of the things that are being impacted and will be impacted further is the way we eat. At the moment, about 13 crops provide 80% of people's energy intake all over the globe, and half of the calories we consume come from maize, rice, and wheat. Some of these crops might not grow well in higher temperatures, extreme weather events, or due to unpredictable rainfall. So, humans will have to diversify their foods. Here is a list of six foods that may become more popular as the planet warms.
1.
Bambara groundnut
A reliable source of protein, fiber, and
minerals like potassium, magnesium, and iron, it can be used roasted or boiled
and used in gluten-free flour and dairy-free milk. This drought-tolerant legume
is native to sub-Saharan Africa. It is packed with protein, and its crop grows
well in nutrient-poor soil without chemical fertilizers.
2.
Millet
A good source of carbohydrates, protein,
and minerals like potassium, phosphorus, and magnesium, maize has been used as
whole grain and in gluten-free flour, pasta, chips, and beer. 2023 has been
declared as International Year of Millets by the UN. This staple grain is
mostly found in Africa and Asia. Maize crop needs less water and can thrive in
warm and dry environments.
3.
Kelp
They are a great source of vitamins,
minerals (iodine, calcium, and iron), and antioxidants. They are used in salads,
smoothies, salsa, pickles, noodles, and chips. They are also found in
toothpaste, shampoo, and biofuels. It is very climate-friendly as it takes in
carbon dioxide and helps lower the acidity of the watery surroundings. It also
sequesters carbon which helps the environment.
4.
Mussels
Mussels are considered a good source of
protein, omega-3, vitamin B12, and minerals like iron, manganese, and zinc.
They can be used as steamed and can be added to pasta dishes, stews, and soups.
There is no need for water or fertilization, leading to the rise of bivalve
farms. It would help lower the prices in the future. They are also super
nutritious and super hardy.
5.
Cassava
Next on the list is Cassava, a great source
of carbohydrates, potassium, and vitamin C. It is used as a whole cooked root
and in gluten-free flour. It's a North-American vegetable that helps with
climate resilience, sustainability, and nutrition. It is grown in over 100
countries and can withstand up to 40° Celsius temperatures. It is also salt and
drought-tolerant.
6.
Enset
Also known as false banana, Enset is a
reliable source of carbohydrates, calcium, potassium, and zinc. It is used in porridge
or bread and is also used to make rope, plates, and building materials. The
plant of an enset is similar to a banana tree, hence the name. It can also be
harvested at any time of the year and can be relied upon during the dry
periods.
Sources:
https://www.sciencenews.org/article/food-climate-future-nutrition-millet-seaweed-cassava-mussels
https://flipboard.com/@kevinbeachus9/climate-change-alternative-power-3aukcr90z/these-six-foods-may-become-more-popular-as-the-planet-warms/a-MusDLY-WRm-wfmIkdWB8Sw%3Aa%3A109197962-85a7ab6742%2Fsciencenews.org
https://mydroll.com/these-six-foods-may-become-more-popular-as-the-planet-warms/