Exploring Underused Starchy Food Crops to Extend Their Consumption: Mexico as Case of Study

Area of Science:

• Agricultural Science
• Food Science
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Mexico boasts high biodiversity and favorable geography for diverse crop cultivation.
• Starchy food crops are integral to the Mexican diet across various regions.
• Underutilized traditional crops offer significant nutritional and functional potential.

Purpose of the Study:

• To characterize Mexican starchy food crops for their nutritional and functional properties.
• To explore the potential for expanding the consumption of these traditional foods.
• To highlight the benefits of diversifying underutilized starchy crops.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of existing studies on Mexican starchy food crops.
• Analysis of nutritional composition and bioactive compounds.
• Assessment of functional properties and dietary fiber content.

Main Results:

• Mexican starchy crops possess valuable bioactive compounds and dietary fiber.
• These crops can be consumed directly or processed into functional foods.
• Significant nutritional potential exists for direct consumption and food innovation.

Conclusions:

• Diversifying the use of traditional Mexican starchy food crops can enhance nutrition.
• Exploiting these crops offers opportunities for agricultural producers and food industry.
• Further research and development can unlock the full potential of these underutilized resources.