Promising potential of millets as the staple of our plate: an Indian perspective

Abstract

Abstract In this modern world, climate change adversely affects global food security and India is not out of it. India is now going to be the most populous country in the world and a growing population means an ever-increasing demand for safe and healthy food. Cultivation of millets can help us in this aspect as they are nutrient-dense and capable of resisting a variety of harsh environmental conditions, including lack of moisture. Millets are coarse grains that have been traditionally grown and consumed in the Indian subcontinent for about 5000 years. Although they are tagged as “poor man's food grains” regular consumption of millets can help in maintaining the good health of individuals as they are packed with several essential micronutrients like phosphorous, fiber, protein, potassium, manganese, antioxidants, polyphenols, flavonoids etc. Millets have numerous health benefits, including helping to balance our blood glucose levels, keeping our heart in good condition, aiding in weight loss, battling cancer cells, promoting digestion, giving stronger bones, strengthening our cardiovascular system, and acting as an agent for anti-aging. This review work has described the promising potential of millets as the staple of our plate. Graphical abstract

Keywords

• Millets
• Nutritional profiling
• Processing
• Functional properties
• Staple food
• Food security