Grasspea: A Story of Security

Meet the grasspea, scientifically known as Lathyrus sativus. The name "lathyrus" comes from a Greek word for pea or bean, while "sativus" means cultivated. Grasspea has been grown in Europe for around 8,000 years, with its origins tracing back to the Fertile Crescent in Turkey and Syria. Its utility and resilience led to its spread across Asia and Africa, and legend has it that the Queen of Sheba brought it to Ethiopia, where it remains a staple in traditional dishes.

Despite its benefits, grasspea has a controversial side. It can cause lathyrism, a form of irreversible leg paralysis, due to a substance called β-ODAP. However, this condition only arises when grasspea constitutes more than a third of the diet for over 3 to 4 months.

Its journey from ancient cultivation to modern-day use underscores grasspea's resilience and potential, highlighting the importance of continued research and innovation to maximize its benefits while minimizing risks.