Enzymatic Processing of Pigeon Pea Seed Increased Their Techno-Functional Properties

Neglected and underutilized crops (NUS) are those crops that are entirely ignored or little attention is paid to them by agriculture researchers, plant breeders and policy-makers. There has been renewed interest in NUS as many of these varieties and species, along with a wealth of traditional knowledge are being lost at an alarming rate. This chapter provides an overview of underutilized legumes in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). There is a recognized need to explore the diversity of indigenous micro symbionts associated with underutilized legumes. The biochemical mechanism in legumes remains elusive to date as evidence is mounting for allelopathic inhibition of nitrifying microorganisms by root exudation of phenolic compounds. A cross-sectional study was undertaken to explore the potential relationship between enzymatic processes of certain legumes and high tolerance to drought stresses, high biomass productivity, erosion control and dune stabilization and general soil health. Pigeon pea among other legumes have a huge untapped potential for improvement of both in quantity and quality of production in Africa.