Foxtail Millet-nutritive, Health and Value-addition Properties: A Mini-Review

Abstract

Millet is consumed as a staple food, particularly in developing countries, as part of the traditional diet and is gaining popularity throughout the world. They are a source of valuable dietary energy, with high caloric value. Several bioactive compounds are found in higher quantities in millets compared to other staple cereals. The present review explores different spectra of the foxtail millet, from biochemistry, microbial and nutrition to human health promotion. Additionally, foxtail protein or its hydrolysate has demonstrated a number of bioactive effects that warrant further investigation for the treatment of human chronic illnesses. In terms of human nutrition, it has great promise for effectively creating affordable, functional and value added food items that aid in the management of malnutrition. Finally, we examine a variety of millets' products that can enhance societal nutrition through the prism of value-addition. Applications for millet products can be found in the food, pharmaceutical, bio-based, and agricultural industries. The background material together serves as the justification for this review.