NWO REAP2SOW (KB-56-002-024)

The REAP2SOW project seeks to fundamentally reshape Dutch agriculture by focusing on the development and adoption of novel or rediscovered protein-rich crops such as quinoa, white lupin, and aardaker. These crops have significant potential to improve the resilience of agricultural systems in the face of climate change, enhance biodiversity, and promote a more sustainable transition toward plant-based diets. However, widespread adoption of these crops faces several challenges, including underdeveloped genetic resources, limited consumer awareness, and uncertainties about their integration into current farming practices.

REAP2SOW aims to address these challenges through a series of interconnected work packages (WPs), each designed to tackle a specific aspect of the crop development, sustainability, and market integration process. This interdisciplinary approach will be complemented by several outreach activities and citizens science initiatives to maximize the engagement of the Dutch public.

Introducing new crops into cropping systems, markets, and diets can create synergies and trade-offs in food security, safety, and sustainability. In WP5 where WFSR is mainly involved, a systematic supply chain analysis is needed to identify enablers and barriers. This work package will first assess the chemical characteristics of quinoa, white lupin, and aardaker. For aardaker focusing on protein profiles and allergenicity , and plant toxins in quinoa and white lupin to address possible food safety risks. For aardaker, as a forgotten crop, little is known about its risks and benefits. The influence of cooking on protein profiles and allergenicity will also be examined. This WP will also evaluate system analysis approaches to balance yield, safety, and biodiversity in transitioning to plant-based proteins. A citizen science approach will be combined with local supply chain analysis, supported by a dashboard that integrates data for researchers, breeders, supply chain actors, and policymakers. Global trade models will assess the potential environmental trade-offs of this transition within the Dutch food system.