Issues affecting development of non-food crops - an industry view

摘要

In recent years there has been significant and growing interest in the production of non food crops and their derivatives; examples include specialist oilseeds, fibre crops, natural dyes and energy crops. To date, the commercial uptake of such crops has been relatively limited and this paper aims to provide an insight into why this is and how such obstacles have been overcome in a number of cases to create a dynamic and expanding range of commercial non-food crops. Commercialization of crambe (Crambeabyssinica) otherwise known as Abyssinian mustard in the UK, is used as an example case study, building from initial research and development through to field production of over 3500 ha within 3 years, with plans for a significant increase in 2004 and beyond. The contents of this paper are derived from both practical and commercial first hand experiences in developing a wide range of oilseed, fibre and energy crops from initial conception through to full establishment of viable markets.