Investigating the Potential of Halophytic Seeds for Producing Edible Oil on Saline Lands: An Agroecological Approach for Advancing Bio‐Saline Agriculture

Abstract

ABSTRACT Higher food demand is posing a serious challenge due to land degradation, urban expansion, and climate change. Salinity alone affects about a billion hectares of land globally, rendering vast areas unsuitable for conventional crops. In this context, halophytes adapted to saline marginal lands offer a novel and sustainable solution for seed oil production. This review critically evaluates the potential of halophytes as oilseed crops and highlights the mechanisms to enhance seed yield and restoration of saline land for sustainable saline agriculture. Notably, halophytes such as Salicornia europaea (28.3% oil), Tamarix ramosissima (28.6%), and Atriplex nummularia (29.8%) exhibit oil levels comparable to traditional oilseeds. In terms of protein, Salicornia bigelovii (35%) and Prosopis glandulosa (39.9%) rival conventional legumes. Energy values reach up to 376.3 MJ/kg ( Eragrostis pilosa ), while fiber levels range from 4% to 21%, indicating their holistic nutritional potential. Evidence from prior research suggested that biotechnological strategies (breeding, genetic engineering, and hormonal treatments) can improve halophyte oil yield and stress tolerance. This review also explores biotechnological strategies (breeding, genetic engineering, and hormonal treatments) to enhance oil yield and stress tolerance. Oil‐rich halophyte seeds can be used as a source of edible oil for achieving food security, promoting sustainable agriculture, and supporting rural livelihoods.

Affiliated Institutions

• University of Southern Queensland AU
• King Khalid University SA
• Lahore College for Women University PK
• University of Al Dhaid
• Assiut University EG
• University of Sharjah AE
• University of Karachi PK

Related Publications