Underutilised legumes in regenerative agriculture: Implications for food and nutritional security – A review

Abstract

Global food systems face mounting challenges from climate change, soil degradation, and population growth, threatening food security and environmental sustainability. Regenerative agriculture, emphasizing soil health and biodiversity, offers a promising solution, with leguminous crops playing a central role. These plants, notably underutilized species such as Vigna subterranea (Bambara groundnut) and Cajanus cajan (pigeon pea), fix atmospheric nitrogen, enhancing soil fertility and reducing reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Rich in proteins, dietary fibre, and micronutrients, legumes bolster nutritional security, particularly in regions with limited access to animal-based proteins. This review comprehensively examines the ecological, nutritional, and socioeconomic contributions of legumes in regenerative agriculture, focusing on their potential to foster climate-resilient food systems. It quantifies their benefits, including nitrogen fixation rates up to 200 kg/ha and yield increases of 25 % in crop rotations. The nutritional profile of legumes, including 18–40 % protein content and bioactive compounds, supports the prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases like cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Advances in processing techniques, such as fermentation and enzyme-assisted extraction, enhance nutrient bioavailability while mitigating anti-nutritional factors like phytic acid. Underutilized legumes, adapted to marginal environments, hold untapped potential to diversify diets and strengthen food security in climate-vulnerable regions. However, challenges such as limited market access and consumer awareness persist. This review advocates for increased research into biofortified varieties, sustainable processing, and policy incentives to integrate legumes into circular food systems, ensuring global nutritional security and environmental sustainability.