LONDON (Enmaeya News) — A recent review in Future Foods explores strategies to enhance food biodiversity in Europe by integrating novel foods (NF), neglected and underutilized species (NUS), and invasive alien species (IAS). Despite the availability of over 300,000 edible plant species, global diets remain dominated by a few staple crops, threatening biodiversity and food security.

Novel foods such as microalgae, edible insects, and mycoproteins offer sustainable alternatives but face regulatory and cultural barriers. NUS, including resilient wild plants and orphan legumes, can strengthen food security and preserve cultural heritage, but their adoption requires breeding improvements and consumer education. Meanwhile, IAS, often considered ecological threats, could serve as new food sources, though safety concerns and ethical dilemmas must be addressed.

Barriers to the adoption of these alternative foods include consumer resistance, regulatory challenges, and supply chain limitations. Solutions such as public awareness campaigns, culinary innovations, and streamlined approval processes could promote acceptance. Additionally, long-term research and investment are needed to ensure sustainability and accessibility.

By diversifying food sources, Europe can build a more resilient food system, reduce environmental impact, and improve nutritional security. Collaboration between governments, researchers, and the food industry is essential to successfully integrating these alternative food sources into mainstream diets.