TREEFOOD

The present overall research objectives are to 1) develop adapted ‘agroforestree’ plant material for introduction into local agroforestry systems, 2) assess biochemical compounds and nutritional value of native edible tree/shrub species products, 3) develop improved processing of products, 4) promote sustainable management of edible tree/shrub species and develop (inter-) national marketing strategies of their products.

The main activities are grouped in six work packages:
(WP1) Literature review and traditional knowledge survey on native edible tree/shrub species;
(WP2) Assessment of biochemical compounds and nutritional value of selected native edible tree/shrub species products;
(WP3) Analysis and development of value chains and improvement of marketing and processing of selected edible tree/shrub products;
(WP4) Development of locally adapted domestication of selected native edible tree/shrub species;
(WP5) capacity building; and
(WP6) Coordination and management.

The expected results of the project are:

• Local knowledge on food trees is documented and a database on species and products is built;
• Biochemical composition of products is analyzed and their nutritional value is known;
• Improved processing of products is developed and sound marketing is promoted;
• Sustainable harvesting and best-plantation techniques are developed;
• Capacity building is done.