EMMER: BENEFITS, DRAWBACKS AND PROSPECTS

Abstract

Provision with healthy food is the most important reason that over the past decades has led to an increasing interest in rare species of wheats. Successful wheat breeding enhanced yields, however, this was associated with deterioration in grain quality due to reduced protein, vitamin and mineral contents in grain. Wheat emmer (Triticum dicoccoides (Schrank) Schuebl. (2n = 4x = 28)) is an ancestor of domestic wheat. Emmer is considered to be a potential source of genes for important agronomic features, including grain quality. The purpose of this review was to highlight the benefits of emmer compared to modern varieties of bread and pasta wheats. Major parameters of emmer grain quality (protein, carotenoid, fiber, trace mineral and some anotioxidants contents) and its advantages for healthy nutrition are particularized. Antihyperglycemic properties of emmer are accentuated. The risks of genetic erosion in domestic plants and related consequences for agriculture require the underutilized emmer wheat potential. This review summarizes detailed information on emmer to facilitate using its potential in breeding.

Keywords

• emmer
• grain quality
• micronutrients
• genetic source
• nutritional value