Work

The social valuation as a limiting factor in plant breeding research: The case of Iberian rye

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: Focusing on Iberian rye, we explain how social opinion about crops can influence botanical scholars’ studies and breeding engineers’ research. Rye was an essential plant in some agricultural systems of the Iberian Peninsula for centuries because of its resistance. However, despite rye’s superiority over other cereals in adverse environments, its inferior position compared to wheat regarding food preferences helps to explain a lower consumption and an overall adverse social reputation. The early botanical investigation that formed the basis of later scientific research reflected this appreciation. Thus, with such weak foundations, given the lack of interest, when Iberian rye engineering began to develop in the 20th century, it looked abroad to find varieties of agronomic interest, barely studying native landraces. Analysing this phenomenon is a significant step towards drawing attention to a multifunctional plant adapted to the territory, which can offer solutions to present food and environmental challenges.

Source: Rural History

DOI: 10.1017/s0956793325100186

Authors: Alberto González Remuiñán, Dulce Freire

Institution: University of Coimbra

Language: English

Topic: Historical and socio-economic studies of Spain and related regions

Subfield: Economics and Econometrics

Field: Economics, Econometrics and Finance

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,550