In the face of a burgeoning global population and the escalating challenges posed by harsh climatic conditions, researchers are turning to unconventional yet resilient food sources to ensure food security. A recent review published in the *Journal of Sustainable Agriculture and Environment* (translated as *مجلة الزراعة المستدامة والبيئة* in Arabic) sheds light on the potential of date palms and camels as sustainable and resilient food sources, aligning with the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 2 and 12.
The study, led by Nilushni Sivapragasam from the Department of Food Science at the United Arab Emirates University, explores how these two resources can meet the nutritional demands of a growing population while withstanding adverse climatic conditions, particularly in dry, arid regions.
Date palms, according to the research, are remarkably resilient. They can endure high temperatures of up to 50°C, tolerate high salinity levels, and possess unique physiological features that help them retain water. “Date palms have an incredible ability to absorb carbon dioxide, with their shoot system capable of absorbing approximately 200 kg per year,” Sivapragasam explains. This not only makes them a sustainable food source but also contributes significantly to the circular economy through their nutritional benefits and environmental impact.
Camels, on the other hand, are equally resilient. They have superior anatomical, physiological, and behavioral adaptations that allow them to thrive in harsh climates. Camel milk, in particular, offers a multitude of health and nutritional benefits, making it a valuable sustainable food source. “Camel milk is not just a food source; it’s a nutritional powerhouse,” Sivapragasam notes. “Its diversified products offer a range of health benefits, making it a valuable addition to the global food market.”
The commercial implications of this research are substantial. As the world grapples with food security challenges, the date palm and camel industries could see significant growth. The energy sector, in particular, could benefit from the carbon-sequestering capabilities of date palms, while the nutritional benefits of camel milk could open up new markets and opportunities.
This research provides a platform for developing new practices and policies based on future foods for global food security challenges. As Sivapragasam concludes, “By leveraging the resilience and sustainability of date palms and camels, we can make significant strides towards achieving the UN’s SDGs and ensuring food security for future generations.”
The study, published in the *Journal of Sustainable Agriculture and Environment*, offers a comprehensive review of utilizing date palm and camels as resilient and sustainable food sources, paving the way for innovative solutions to global food security challenges.