Insights into North African endemic plants and their applications in the food industry with particular emphasis on their quality and safety assessment

Abstract Background The exploration of alternative food sources has gained significant attention mainly to secure the food supply, maintain sustainability and face the environmental, climate and human challenges. North Africa hosts a plethora of endemic plants that have remained largely untapped in terms of their potential for human consumption. Materials and methods A comprehensive literature survey was conducted using several search engines, including Google Scholar, Scopus, BASE, CORE, MDPI, Wiley publications, Web of Science, Springer Link, Microsoft Academia, and PubMed. Relevant studies available up to 2025 were included without time restrictions. Results Through an extensive literature review, we identified several native plants that exhibit promising nutritional profiles, with potential health benefits especially for the food industry. The integration of these endemic plants into the food industry has the potential to diversify diets, promote sustainable agriculture harvesting and cultivation practices, support regional food security, and to safeguard local ecosystems and maintain ecological balance. Conclusion This review underscores the significance of collaborative efforts between researchers, policymakers, and the private sector to fully unlock the benefits of North African endemic plants as alternative food sources and foster a more resilient and sustainable food future for the region and beyond. Furthermore, the review highlights their adaptability to various culinary uses, encompassing traditional dishes, modern recipes, and potential industrial applications.