ROUNDTABLES

DIALOGUE ABOUT UFPs (UNCONVENTIONAL FOOD PLANTS) AND WATER CARE

This roundtable brought to the public a very interesting topic.

It was talked about the Unconventional Food Plants (UFPs) that are species that many people know, but few know that they can be consumed, such as Ora-pro-nobis, Passiflora cincinnata, Garden nasturtium and Clover.

In this matter, the panelists talked about the planting of these species, which have a low use, besides being resistant and do not need pesticides to develop, and above all, they are resistant and nutritious, which also helps in the care of the waters that compose our body. The importance of making the planting of the UFPs continuous, to create a permanent community bank, was reinforced.

There were several testimonies that working with these species should be valued, and for this, it is necessary to make production stable, to domesticate the species and to make a monitored planting. This type of planting respects local characteristics and strengthens the community and these plants can be used for animal feed.

It was highlighted that the foods we eat often do not contain these micronutrients necessary for the human body, and this type of food is much more than nutrient, it is a cultural bond, therefore, fundamental to our sense of community.

After the explanations, the participants could meet in groups of three and talk about the theme. They then explained what was said, and the dialogue was very productive, and for many it was the first time they heard about the UFPs. The final message is that due to extreme climate fluctuations and especially the water issue, it is necessary to open our horizons for agriculture and therefore for our food.

We must respect the cycles, let nature breathe and have its break to live in harmony.