Millets on the Rise: Bridging Tradition, Nutrition, and Innovation – News18

Last Updated:December 21, 2024, 07:23 IST

Incorporating millets into modern diets is not just a culinary choice; it’s a way to connect to both our heritage and a healthier, more eco-conscious future

Millets, the ancient grains of the past, are making a remarkable comeback. Once overshadowed by rice and wheat, these nutrient-dense grains — including ragi, bajra, and jowar — are now being recognized for their rich nutritional profile and role in promoting sustainable agriculture. As we celebrate the United Nations’ declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets, there is growing awareness about how these grains can bridge the gap between traditional foods, modern nutrition, and global sustainability efforts.

Swarn Singh, Director – R&D, Kellanova South Asia, underscores the health benefits of millets, “Millets are packed with essential nutrients such as protein, fiber, calcium, and iron, making them valuable additions to modern diets,” says Singh. “For example, ragi is a rich source of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining healthy bones. Bajra provides an energy boost, thanks to its high fiber content and antioxidants, while jowar, with its protein and fiber, helps sustain energy throughout the day.”

As consumers increasingly seek nutritious, wholesome foods, millets have become a key focus for the food industry. Singh explains, “The food industry is focusing on nourishing and nutritious foods that meet evolving consumer demands. Our product portfolio includes multigrain foods featuring millets, addressing the growing need for nutrient-dense, sustainable food choices.”

Millets also stand out for their environmental benefits. “Millets are sustainable grains that require less water and are more resistant to droughts, making them resilient against climate change,” Singh adds. “This places them firmly in the sustainable food category for the future.”

Aishwarya Kumbhakoni, RD, Consultant Dietician,Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai, emphasizes the role of millets in sustainable agriculture and environmental health, “Millets are highly sustainable crops that could play a significant role in addressing environmental challenges like water scarcity, soil degradation, and climate change,” says Kumbhakoni.

“Millets are one of the least demanding and most sustainable crops. Pearl millet, finger millet, and proso millet thrive in arid and semi-arid regions, requiring minimal water compared to major cereal crops like rice and wheat.”

Millets are also a key player in maintaining soil health and supporting rural economies. Kumbhakoni notes, “Millets are often used in crop rotation systems, which helps reduce soil erosion and maintain soil fertility. Supporting their cultivation can promote food security, aid rural development, and empower smallholder farmers.”

However, despite their many benefits, millets are still less widely consumed than rice or wheat, leading to less investment in improving their productivity. Kumbhakoni points out, “While there’s growing awareness of the health benefits of millets, they remain underutilized in many regions. But the demand is increasing, especially among urban and semi-urban consumers. Thanks to efforts by organizations like ICAR, policies are being developed to improve awareness and ensure an efficient millet supply chain.”

Chef Deepak Gore, Tata Sampann In-House Culinary Chef, highlights how easy it is to incorporate millets into daily meals, “The Government of India has been actively promoting millets through various schemes, recognizing the potential of these ancient grains to benefit health, farmers, and the planet,” says Chef Gore. “India, as the largest producer of millets, is leading the way in reviving this nutritious grain.”

Chef Gore recommends simple ways to bring millets into everyday cooking. “Millets are naturally gluten-free, rich in dietary fiber, and packed with micronutrients. One simple way to include millets is by incorporating ragi rotis as a healthy alternative to your regular wheat rotis. Tata Sampann Easy-Cook Ragi Atta makes it easy to prepare these wholesome and tasty rotis, ensuring that nutritious meals are just a few steps away.”

Millets are more than just a trend. They represent a powerful fusion of traditional wisdom and modern nutrition. These resilient grains provide a solution to the growing demand for sustainable, health-conscious foods in an increasingly climate-conscious world. As we embrace millets, we not only honor ancient food traditions but also pave the way for a more sustainable and food-secure future.

“Let’s celebrate the International Year of Millets by incorporating them into our daily lives,” says Singh. “Millets are not just a grain; they are a step towards a healthier, more sustainable future.”

Incorporating millets into modern diets is not just a culinary choice; it’s a way to connect to both our heritage and a healthier, more eco-conscious future. As we explore new ways to enjoy millets, we contribute to a global movement toward sustainability, nutrition, and resilience.