The main results achieved by RADIANT included the establishment of 20 CREATOR workshops and the organisation of 2 GOURMET events across several countries, enabling stakeholders to share success stories, test new technologies, and discuss value chains for underutilised crops (UCs). All participating farmers recruited during the first period completed their trials, and the resulting data were collected and analysed through Transition Diaries. Major digital tools were also advanced, including the CROPBASE-EU platform, which integrated farm- and value chain-level data, and the e-RADIANT app, which became available on the Apple and Google app stores. A UC Capacity Building Framework was also developed (Fig. 2), describing the range of resources generated by the project. Together, these outputs strengthened data collection, knowledge transfer, and stakeholder interaction.
The project also developed a structured approach to the characterisation, genetic analysis, breeding, and agroecological management of underutilised crops. Selected crop collections were characterised through field trials carried out in different environments, as well as through stress tolerance assessment and nutritional profiling. Participatory breeding approaches were implemented in AURORA Farms to valorise indigenous varieties and support the development of improved ones. Advanced breeding methods, including genome-wide association studies (GWAS) and genomic selection, were applied, resulting in new molecular tools to support crop improvement (Fig. 3). In parallel, innovative agroecological practices were tested, including intercropping, cover crops, hydroponics, biostimulants, and biofertilisers, and these activities contributed to multiple scientific publications. In addition, four videos and brochures were produced by the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the University of Gastronomic Sciences (UNISG) for four AURORA Farms.
The project also broadened recognition of the value of underutilised crops by assessing ecosystem services and supporting the development of novel products (Fig. 4). A framework of indicators was created to assess the environmental contribution of these crops, complemented by the Agroecological Practices for Assessing Ecosystem Services (APES) self-assessment tool for farmers. New processing technologies were tested, and five novel food products — including plant-based meat and dairy alternatives, bread, confectionery, and snacks — were developed and evaluated through sensory analysis. Underutilised crop-based animal feed and technical products were also produced using advanced processing techniques. The RADIANT Metrics tool was developed to support the multi-dimensional assessment of the sustainability and resilience of underutilised crop value chains in comparison with conventional ones. Results showed that value chains based on underutilised crops demonstrated strong agency, connectivity, and diversity, reinforcing their potential as sustainable alternatives.
Further outputs supported business development, data sharing, and transparency in value chains. The Digital Agrifood Data Space (DADS) was finalised to enable secure data sharing, while the Market Avenue Generator (MAG) decision-support system was developed to support the design of sustainable business models. Fifteen business briefs were co-created with AURORA Farms, and a blockchain-based traceability demonstrator was tested, improving transparency and consumer trust in underutilised crop value chains.
The project also ensured the dissemination and exploitation of its results. Project branding and communication tools were maintained, with continuous updates to the website, social media channels, and the Agrobiodiversity Toolbox, which hosted nine tools by the end of the project. Key dissemination events included the RARE FOOD FAIR (Fig. 5), which attracted wide public and media attention and showcased the diversity of underutilised crops through several national and international exhibitors. To support exploitation, workshops were conducted, exploitation roadmaps and pitch decks were prepared, and collaboration with sister projects and networks was strengthened through UC-Cluster activities. Overall, RADIANT (Fig. 6) made a significant contribution to advancing knowledge and practice on underutilised crops by delivering innovative tools, policy recommendations, sustainable management practices, and new products.
