Tag: Ancient crops

Native to central and southern Mexico and Guatemala, chia seeds (Salvia hispanica) were a vital crop for pre-Columbian Aztec and Mayan civilizations, dating back as far as 3500 BC. These tiny, nutritional powerhouses have a history deeply rooted in Mesoamerican culture, where they were prized for their ability to provide sustained energy and strength.

Mentioned in Homer's epic poem *The Odyssey* as "selinon" around 800 B.C., the ancestor of celeriac was a wild plant with medicinal uses in ancient times. So, where is celeriac from, and how did this wild herb evolve into the knobby root vegetable known today?

Millets, a group of small-seeded grasses, have been cultivated by humans for over 7,000 years, making them one of the oldest domesticated cereal grains. Considered a staple food in many regions of Asia and Africa, this resilient grain is now experiencing a global resurgence due to its impressive nutritional profile, gluten-free nature, and remarkable ability to thrive in harsh environments. The United Nations declared 2023 the International Year of Millets to promote their health, environmental, and economic benefits.

Archaeological evidence suggests that humans were gathering wild lentil varieties as far back as 23,000 years ago, indicating their ancient natural origin. However, the lentils we eat today are the product of thousands of years of cultivation and selective breeding.

Cultivated for over 7,000 years in Peru, lima beans were not just food but also held ceremonial and symbolic importance for ancient cultures. Their enduring value showcases precisely why are lima beans so important to global food systems and human health today.