Terroir Products in Morocco: A review of Challenges, Development Strategies, Biotechnology for Sustainable Valorization

Authors

  • Barae Abaida Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology,Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality,Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146,Mohammedia 20650, Morocco .
  • Rajaa Tesse Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology,Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality,Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146,Mohammedia 20650, Morocco.
  • Bouchaib Bahlaouan Higher Institutes of the Nursing Professions and Techniques of Health (ISPITS) (https://ror.org/007h8y788), Laboratory of Care, Health and Sustainable Development 2S2D, Casablanca 22500, Morocco.
  • FatimaZahra Boutaleb Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology,Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality,Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146,Mohammedia 20650, Morocco .
  • Marouane Chahbouni Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology,Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality,Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146,Mohammedia 20650, Morocco .
  • Ghita Radi Benjelloun Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology,Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality,Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146,Mohammedia 20650, Morocco .
  • Nadia Boutaleb Hassan II University of Casablanca (https://ror.org/001q4kn48), Laboratory of Biotechnology,Agri-Food, Materials and Environment, Team: Biotechnologies, Resource Valorization, Quality,Health and Ecotoxicology, Faculty of Science and Technology Mohammedia, BP 146,Mohammedia 20650, Morocco .

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.63095/NBSEH.26.583051

Keywords:

Terroir products, Valorization, Biotechnology, Sustainable Development

Abstract

Moroccan terroir products represent a significant wealth, stemming from the country’s biological diversity, local production conditions, and the traditional knowledge of rural communities. These products play a key role in the economic and social development of rural areas. Yet, their valorization remains limited by several constraints, including the lack of suitable technologies, the weak structuring of value chains, and the impacts of climate change. This study comprehensively surveys scientific work on the valorization of Moroccan terroir products, with a focus on the contribution of biotechnology as a tool for improving quality, preservation, and sustainability. A systematic literature review was conducted following the PRISMA method, covering the period 2001-2025. The selected publications were analysed to identify the main sectors studied, the technological approaches used, and research trends, in order to ensure the sustainable valorization of Moroccan terroir products and support the development of rural areas.

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Morocco has a rich and diverse Agri-food heritage, with over 200 terroir products such as Argan oil, Saffron, and Olive oil. These products are both a cultural pillar and a socio-economic driver for rural areas, supporting local communities and preserving traditional knowledge. National strategies, such as the Green Morocco Plan (2008) and Generation Green (2020-2030), aim to enhance these products through cooperatives, official labels, and new technologies. Official quality labels like AOP, IGP, and Agricultural Label help ensure traceability, protect geographical origin, and build consumer trust. These initiatives also promote the development of structured marketing channels and the adoption of innovative processing techniques. Despite these efforts, technical, organizational, and environmental challenges remain, including limited resources and climate constraints. It is important to strengthen the value chains of these products. They are a major opportunity for sustainable rural development and economic inclusion.

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Published

2026-04-07

How to Cite

Abaida, B., Tesse, R., Bahlaouan, B., Boutaleb, F., Chahbouni, M., Radi Benjelloun, G., & Boutaleb, N. (2026). Terroir Products in Morocco: A review of Challenges, Development Strategies, Biotechnology for Sustainable Valorization. Natural Built Social Environment Health, 2(2), 104–136. https://doi.org/10.63095/NBSEH.26.583051

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