Underutilized crops are described as plant species that were once popular but have since been neglected by mainstream agriculture for several reasons. A widespread monoculture agricultural revolution and a tendency toward more high-yielding varieties were the main reasons for the underutilization of certain crops. Remarkably, underutilized crops have endured even without formal support, which indicates that besides their exceptional nutritional value and beneficial effects on human health they contain desirable traits that could be useful for building resilience and adaptation to climate-changing environments. As such, the re-establishment of these plants to the global food system is desired. To find solutions for overcoming the obstacles for the reintroduction of these crops and to bring the neglected species back to cultivation and utilization, a comprehensive understanding of the potential reasons for the reduced cultivation of these crops is necessary. In this article, potential reasons, causes, and conditions for the decreased cultivation and consumption of certain crops are discussed with a presentation of case studies of the following species: buckwheat, lentils, green leafy vegetables, sow thistle, grass pea, cucumber melon, and eggplant. Finally, potential solutions for overcoming the identified obstacles associated with both the cultivation and consumption of certain underutilized crops and neglected species are provided. Documented benefits of the production of various crops in agricultural production systems and the beneficial effects of increased consumption of these crops for human health should stimulate and encourage people from various disciplines, i.e., farmers, researchers, agronomists, nutritionists, and policymakers to join the efforts to bring neglected species back to cultivation and consumption.

Modern agri-food systems demand crops that are climate change resilient, support environmental sustainability, enhance dietary diversity and appeal to consumers. This article examines the potential of underutilized crops in meeting these challenges. We take Lathyrus as a case study and examine it within the context of European agri-food value chains, with a particular focus on Germany and Spain. The study employs a range of methods—literature review, interviews, field observations, and consumer opinion surveys —to explore its versatility. The findings reveal that Lathyrus sativus (grass pea) offers significant benefits: it is adapted to dry climates and tolerates high rainfall. As a nitrogen fixing crop, it can play an important role in crop rotations, reducing the need for fertilization and providing an attractive alternative for organic farmers. Through appropriate processing methods, Lathyrus can enhance its beneficial nutritional characteristics. Furthermore, it is well suited for the development of innovative recipes that align with modern culinary trends and meet consumers’ expectations across different cultures. To make use of its potential, adaptive cultivation methods and value chain cooperation are needed. Along the value chain, the affordable pricing of Lathyrus-based products and clear communication of their nutritional, environmental, and social benefits prove to be most critical.

Objective To examine the availability of academic programmes in nutrition and identify nutrition training needs in Central and Eastern Europe (CEE). Design A questionnaire with close-ended and open-ended questions was distributed to the members of the United Nations University Standing Committee on Nutrition, Regional Network for Capacity Development in Nutrition in CEE (NCDN CEE). Setting Participants’ responses to the questionnaire including the comments of their colleagues from home institutions were obtained in group discussions during NCDN CEE meetings in 2010–2013. Subjects Sixteen CEE countries’ experts and their colleagues from home institutions involved in NCDN CEE activities 2007–2013. Results The responses were obtained from fourteen out of sixteen participating countries; five countries have established Bachelor, Master and PhD studies in nutrition (Croatia, Czech Republic, Poland, Slovak Republic and Slovenia), whereas in Latvia and Republic of Macedonia only Bachelor and Master studies are set up. Seven countries have no Bachelor, Master or PhD studies: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Estonia, Lithuania, Montenegro, Romania and Serbia. Introduction to data analysis and Nutritional epidemiology are the most needed nutrition trainings that would increase working competence of nutritionists and nutrition-related professionals in CEE. Conclusions Availability of academic programmes in nutrition in CEE countries is limited. Opportunities for improving the competence of existing and future nutrition-related professionals should be addressed at national and regional level; distance learning courses and creation of a regional centre for nutrition training were seen as opportunities for sustainable capacity development in nutrition in CEE.