Traditional knowledge and trade of taioba (Xanthosoma taioba E.G. Gonç.) in open-air markets of Southeastern Brazil

Abstract

Knowledge gaps in Brazilian Unconventional Food Plants (UFP) can lead to food poisoning. Due to morphological similarity, taioba (Xanthosoma taioba E.G.Gonç.) has been confused with other species of the Araceae family. Although some species are edible, consuming them without proper preparation can irritate the oral mucosa and the gastrointestinal tract, causing vomiting, etc., due to the presence of calcium oxalate crystals. We interviewed vendors in open-air markets in the Metropolitan Region of Rio de Janeiro to investigate the trade of taioba. For that, we used semi-structured and checklist interviews, botanical collections, the informant consensus factor (ICF), and descriptive statistical analysis. Xanthosoma taioba E.G.Gonç. and Leucocasia gigantea (Blume) Schott are the most commonly sold species, the latter known as taioba-manteiga. High ICF values correlated with the photograph of X. taioba and the ethnospecies taioba, indicating a high level of consensus among interviewees. As a community outreach, we produced and distributed material containing fundamental information on taioba covering health safety, identification, and proper preparation. We also emphasized the study’s role in recognizing local knowledge and the plant’s importance to the population.