Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter, commonly known as teff, is an ancient, nutrient-rich, and gluten-free cereal native to Ethiopia and Eritrea, increasingly recognized for its sustainability and climate resilience. Traditionally consumed by Ethiopian communities as a staple carbohydrate source, teff is now valued worldwide for its nutrient profile. Despite its historical importance, teff remains an underutilized seed globally compared to staple grains like wheat and maize. Its adaptability to drought-prone and low-fertility soils makes it ideal for dryland farming systems. However, production is limited by poor soil fertility, outdated farming practices, and limited access to improved seeds. Integrated agronomic approaches and genetic advancements, such as semidwarf, lodging-resistant varieties, have shown promise in boosting productivity. Moreover, nanotechnology is also transforming food systems by enhancing nutrient stability, solubility, and bioavailability. Socioeconomic strategies like cluster farming enhance smallholder access to markets and inputs. Teff’s nutritional profile and gluten-free quality have driven its global appeal, especially in health-conscious markets. Expanding the role of teff in sustainable food systems requires policy support, research investment, and international collaboration. As a neglected and underutilized crop, teff holds great promise in addressing food security and agricultural sustainability challenges. This chapter highlights promising solutions to the key challenges limiting teff’s potential as an underutilized crop seed.

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Teff Seeds (Eragrostis tef)

  • Tridip Boruah,
  • David Daimary

摘要

Eragrostis tef (Zucc.) Trotter, commonly known as teff, is an ancient, nutrient-rich, and gluten-free cereal native to Ethiopia and Eritrea, increasingly recognized for its sustainability and climate resilience. Traditionally consumed by Ethiopian communities as a staple carbohydrate source, teff is now valued worldwide for its nutrient profile. Despite its historical importance, teff remains an underutilized seed globally compared to staple grains like wheat and maize. Its adaptability to drought-prone and low-fertility soils makes it ideal for dryland farming systems. However, production is limited by poor soil fertility, outdated farming practices, and limited access to improved seeds. Integrated agronomic approaches and genetic advancements, such as semidwarf, lodging-resistant varieties, have shown promise in boosting productivity. Moreover, nanotechnology is also transforming food systems by enhancing nutrient stability, solubility, and bioavailability. Socioeconomic strategies like cluster farming enhance smallholder access to markets and inputs. Teff’s nutritional profile and gluten-free quality have driven its global appeal, especially in health-conscious markets. Expanding the role of teff in sustainable food systems requires policy support, research investment, and international collaboration. As a neglected and underutilized crop, teff holds great promise in addressing food security and agricultural sustainability challenges. This chapter highlights promising solutions to the key challenges limiting teff’s potential as an underutilized crop seed.