Underutilized Edible Resources of Jipapad, Eastern Samar: A Social Media Perspective

This study aimed to document under-utilized edible indigenous and wild food resources in Jipapad, Eastern Samar, Philippines and highlight their potential for local food security and biodiversity conservation. Data were gathered by reviewing Facebook posts from residents or visitors to the municipality from 2022 and earlier. Identification of food items was conducted through user comments, Google Image Search, and related online articles and publications. Findings revealed a variety of locally available resources, including edible shoots and stems, fruits, root crops, leafy vegetables, seeds and grains, flowers, and mushrooms, with more than 25 species identified across these categories. These results show that social media can be a valuable tool in documenting and promoting awareness of lesser-known food resources. The study underscores the importance of further research, preservation, and utilization of these foods to support community nutrition, cultural heritage, and sustainable livelihoods.