The Cultural Priming of Wheat
Year: 2026
Type: preprint
Abstract: This paper investigates the cultural, institutional, and agroecological mechanisms that consolidated the global dietary prominence of wheat (Triticum spp.) and the structural marginalization of alternative starch crops, focusing on the potential of cassava (Manihot esculenta) to diversify the Western carbohydrate matrix. We formulate and examine the hypothesis of intergenerational cultural priming and symbolic endorsement originating in the Judeo-Christian biblical corpus and subsequent canon law, evaluating its role as a driver of institutional path dependency and status hierarchies in global food systems. Methodologically, the inquiry articulates four analytical dimensions: Comparative philological and archaeogenomic examination of grain hierarchies across antiquity, contrasting Mediterranean lehem with the Chinese counter-example (mian/mai within the Wugu system), demonstrating cultural adoption without sacramental priming. Socio-historical analysis of dietary colonialism, humoral physiology, and sacramental jurisprudence in the Americas. Molecular and epidemiological audit of wheat-related disorders affecting up to ≈ 15% of the population, including celiac disease, amylase-trypsin inhibitor (ATI)–mediated TLR4 innate activation, and FODMAP fructan fermentation. This dimension evaluates the hypoallergenic, low-FODMAP buffer offered by the cassava matrix and modern Chinese table cultivars (SC-9, SC-15, GR-13). Agroecological assessment of nutrient cycling, respiratory agrochemical drift, subterranean organ insulation, and phosphorus bottlenecks (Peak Phosphorus and Chinese strategic reserves), highlighting mycorrhizal symbiosis (Glomus spp.) and circular bioeconomy innovations.
Author: Pirolo, Andrés
Language: English
Subfield: Food Science
Domain: Life Sciences
SDG: Zero hunger
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7218437898
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