Oilseed crops especially those produced in developing countries have been used traditionally since the origin of humanity by populations in Africa, Asia, Europe and the Americas. Besides food uses, many such crops also find applications in industries such as those relating to cosmetics, medicine, soap manufacturing, flavouring and perfumes. Apart from a limited number of documented cases very little is known about the conditions of their production, post-harvest handling, processing, trade and utilization.
Developing countries can no longer rely on quasi monoculture in order to support their growing economies. Under the current conditions, such dependency has, in fact, led them to vulnerability and losses because of the declining prices paid for the goods. It is, therefore, imperative for them to diversify their production and create value added through processing thereby reducing risks and opening new local and export markets. There is a necessity to investigate new opportunities. In this connection, minor crops could provide an answer. The purpose of this publication is to present a series of monographs on minor oil crops for food and non-food use as well as for use as essential oils. It has been divided into three sections namely: (1) Minor edible oil crops, (2) minor non-edible oil crops, and (3) minor essential oil crops. In compiling these monographs, it became clear that the information available varied to a considerable extent, depending on the commodity and on the technical field. In many instances, there was little or no scientific and technical data on aspects of production, post-post-harvest handling, processing and utilization. Major gaps of knowledge were recorded concerning equipment, processing costs, perspective for improvement in methods of production and processing. FAO will therefore be grateful for any contributions readers would wish to make to a possible new edition. All suggestions should be addressed to the Chief, AGSI, FAO, Rome, Italy.
Morton Satin
Officer in Charge
Agricultural Services Division