Traditional knowledge and consumption of forest plant foods in Ghana

2018

English

Promoting the consumption of forest plant foods is a sustainable way of ensuring good nutrition and food security. This study assessed traditional knowledge on and use of forest plant foods in three administrative districts of Ghana and evaluated their potentials for domestication and processing. A total of 606 households were randomly selected and interviewed using enumerator-administered questionnaires. Validation workshops with 30 participants were held in each district to help identify the species mentioned. In all, 83 species belonging to 45 families were documented. Knowledge of forest plant foods was found to be higher among older respondents than younger ones, indicating an urgent need to document traditional knowledge on forest plant foods before it disappears along with the older generation. Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg and Tetrapleura tetraptera (Schumach. & Thonn.) Taub. were identified as potential species for domestication and processing. Domestication and processing of forest plant foods on a larger scale presents opportunity for economic development, sustainability benefits and food security.

Acquah, S. B.; Sraku-Lartey, M.; Samar, S. B.; Djagbletey, G. D.