Case Report
Exploration of Some Wild Food Plants Used by Local Inhabitants of Saharanpur District of the Uttar Pradesh State - A Report
Shivani*
,
Sonam Singh
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
1-15
Received:
30 September 2025
Accepted:
15 October 2025
Published:
21 February 2026
Abstract: The rich biodiversity of Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh harbors a wide array of wild food plants (WFPs), which play a significant role in the sustenance and cultural traditions of rural and tribal communities. This study documents and analyzes the traditional knowledge associated with the collection and use of wild food plants by local inhabitants of the region. Using ethno botanical surveys conducted in various villages and forest fringe communities, a total of 25 wild food plant species were identified and classified based on their local names, plant parts used, mode of consumption, availability and cultural importance. Drawing upon recent academic literature, it synthesizes data on floristic diversity, traditional uses, preparation methods and nutritional composition of key species. The study highlights the critical role of WFPs in local food security, dietary diversity and traditional healthcare systems, particularly in regions facing environmental and socio-economic challenges. The findings highlight the importance of WFPs in Sincere dietary diversification, food security and conservation of indigenous knowledge. Urgent efforts are required to document and preserve this knowledge in the face of socio-economic changes and biodiversity loss. This research reveals that the district, have predominantly herbaceous plants, with leaves and fruits being the most frequently consumed parts. A notable characteristic of many identified plants is their dual food-medicinal properties, which underscores the integrated nature of traditional knowledge systems in the region. Nutritional analysis further demonstrates that several identified WFPs are rich in essential macronutrients, vitamins and minerals, offering substantial health benefits. The continued reliance on WFPs by local populations emphasizes their importance for nutritional supplementation and resilience against food scarcity. However, prevailing threats such as habitat degradation and the erosion of traditional knowledge necessitate urgent conservation efforts and further scientific validation of their nutritional and pharmacological potential. This report advocates for integrated approaches to promote the sustainable utilization and conservation of these invaluable bio-resources.
Abstract: The rich biodiversity of Saharanpur district of Uttar Pradesh harbors a wide array of wild food plants (WFPs), which play a significant role in the sustenance and cultural traditions of rural and tribal communities. This study documents and analyzes the traditional knowledge associated with the collection and use of wild food plants by local inhabi...
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Research Article
Effect of Postharvest Changes on the Quality Attributes of Cucumber from Maturity to Senescence
Esther Oluyinka Pele*,
Mohammed Chindo Ibrahim,
George Ifeoluwa Pele
Issue:
Volume 1, Issue 1, March 2026
Pages:
16-24
Received:
19 December 2025
Accepted:
12 January 2026
Published:
17 March 2026
DOI:
10.11648/j.sdf.20260101.12
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Abstract: The possible shelf-life of plant tissues after harvest has been demonstrated to be highly correlated with its rate of respiration This study investigated the postharvest changes on the physicochemical, proximate, and vitamin compositions in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) at ambient temperature from maturity to senescence. The results showed that pH increased gradually from 3.6 on day 0 to 6.6 by day 83, while Total Soluble Solids (TSS) rose from 0.901% to 3.36%, indicating the process of metabolic activity and carbohydrate breakdown. The weight of the fruit initially increased from 306.71 g to 693.64 g before a slight decline, with corresponding rise in volume (154,858 mm³ to 504,858 mm³) and specific gravity (0.999–1.131), which is an indication of structural expansion and water accumulation. Glucose levels rose from 0.194 mg/ml to 0.376 mg/ml, while titratable acidity declined from 0.348% to 0.244%, suggesting a shift toward decreased acidity and enhanced sweetness. Proximate analysis indicated rising moisture (74.49–86.91%), ash (0.72–1.71%), crude fibre (0.93–1.87%), lipids (0.166–0.283%), and protein (1.55–2.86%), concurrent with a decrease in carbohydrate content from 22.14% to 6.37%, expressing metabolic breakdown of stored sugars. Vitamins A, C, and E showed a significant increase (0.151–0.291 mg/100 g, 4.57–6.03 mg/100 g, and 15.45–16.69 mg/100 g, respectively), exhibiting retention and enhancement of antioxidant potential during storage.
Abstract: The possible shelf-life of plant tissues after harvest has been demonstrated to be highly correlated with its rate of respiration This study investigated the postharvest changes on the physicochemical, proximate, and vitamin compositions in Cucumber (Cucumis sativus) at ambient temperature from maturity to senescence. The results showed that pH inc...
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