International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability
International Journal of Agricultural Sustainability 4 (2006) 61–78
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Realizing the potential of an Andean legume: roles of market-led and research-led innovations
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Claire Nicklin1, Macro Rivera2 and Rebecca Nelson3
1San Ignacio N28-38 y Gonzalez Suarez, Edificio Diana Apt. B7, Quito, Ecuador, 2Instituto Nacional Autónomo de Investigación Agropecuaria, Estación Experimental, Sta. Catalina, Ecuador and 3321 Plant Science, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14850, USA
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Abstract
Lupin (Lupinus mutabilis) is a unique grain legume that can thrive in the adverse conditions of the Andean mountains during the dry season, improve soils and provide a food with superior levels of protein and essential fats that are deficient in the Andean diet. Although it is a component of traditional Andean cropping systems, lupin is currently underutilized. This paper examines how research and market innovations can propel this environmentally and nutritionally beneficial crop from a marginal role into greater prominence in Andean crop rotations, livelihoods and diets. A comprehensive study that included farmer surveys, market analysis and a business case study were employed to examine lupin production and supply chains in Ecuador.
Keywords: Ecuador, food security, Latin America, lupin, markets, rotation
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