Deciphering the Importance of Underutilized Millet Crop towards Sustainable Feed and Food Sources

Abstract

The challenges posed by diminishing agricultural land, rapid urbanization, climate change, and the competition for resources between the food and feed industries have significantly constrained the availability of cultivable plant food sources. This scarcity is particularly acute in developing tropical countries, where resources often fall short in providing sufficient proteins for both human and animal consumption. However, there is substantial potential in the underutilized plant-derived materials, specifically millet crops, which are known for their protein richness and hold cultural significance, especially among tribal communities. The identification, assessment, and introduction of these underexploited millet crops offer a sustainable, long-term solution to ensure a steady supply of food and feed materials. The gluten-free millet grain family, with its tiny, spherical seeds, shows promise as a useful and plentiful food source. The name "millet" comes from the French word "mille," which means "a thousand," highlighting the possibility that a handful of grains may contain up to a thousand. With a 10,000-year history originating in Northern China, millets offer low fat, dietary energy, and glycemic index values along with nutritional advantages and resistance to pests and drought. These hardy crops include amino acids, dietary fibres, iron, zinc, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, vitamin B, and other essential elements. Notably, pearl millet's exceptional nutritional characteristics led the Indian government to classify it as a nutri-cereal in 2018 due to its remarkable nutritious qualities. The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2023 to be the "International Year of Millets," adding to the significance of millets. The Indian government declared 2018 to be the "Year of Millets." By highlighting the benefits of millets' nutrition, encouraging their growth, and incorporating them into regular meals, these programs want to raise awareness of the world's food and nutrition issues.