Tehran - Iranian agricultural researchers have introduced two domestically cultivable plants that could significantly reduce the country's heavy reliance on imported American livestock feed, a move that currently consumes a substantial portion of Iran's vital oil revenues.

 

According to a scientist from Semnan Agricultural Research Center, the crops "Camelina" and "Triticale", which thrive in Iran's climate, are viable alternatives to imported soybeans, barley, and corn.

 

The push for agricultural self-sufficiency comes amid staggering import costs. Official figures reveal that $7.5 billion was spent last year alone on imported animal feed inputs, accounting for approximately one-fifth of Iran’s annual oil income.

 

"The current feed formula for livestock is deliberately American-designed," said an agricultural expert, highlighting the market dominance of the United States as the world’s leading producer of these commodities.

 

The alternative feeding regimen, which has already undergone successful laboratory testing at universities in Semnan, incorporates a blend of local crops. The new formula replaces the American-style diet with camelina, triticale, camelthorn (Alhagi), forage corn, and forage beet.

 

This strategic shift aims to bolster Iran's food security and conserve billions in hard currency by leveraging domestic agricultural potential.