The Impact of De-branning on Millets: Nutritional Losses and Health Implications

The Impact of De-branning on Millets: Nutritional Losses and Health Implications

Sub : Sci

Sec : Health

Why in News

The recent recognition of 2023 as the International Year of Millets by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has brought global attention to the nutritional value of millets. A study published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Springer has highlighted the negative effects of de-branning (removal of bran) on millets, stressing the importance of consuming them as whole grains for maximizing health benefits.

Nutrient Loss Due to De-branning:

The study found that de-branning millets significantly reduces protein, dietary fiber, fat, mineral, and phytate content, while increasing carbohydrates and amylose levels. This nutrient reduction diminishes the health benefits associated with consuming millets.

De-branned millets may increase the glycemic load in diets, potentially making them less suitable for people with diabetes.

About Millets:

Millets are a highly varied group of small-seeded grasses, widely grown around the world as cereal crops or grains for fodder and human food.

The key varieties of millets include Sorghum, Pearl Millet, Ragi, Small Millet, Foxtail Millet, Barnyard Millet, Kodo Millet and others.

Major producers include Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Haryana.

Millets are a powerhouse of nutrients, which score over rice and wheat in terms of minerals, vitamins, and dietary fiber content, as well as amino acid profile.

In India, millets are primarily a kharif crop, requiring less water and agricultural inputs than other similar staples.

Health Benefits of Whole Grain Millets:

Millets are naturally high in calcium, iron, phosphorus, and potassium.

Compared to staple grains like rice, wheat, and maize, millets offer higher levels of Phyto-chemicals, such as phenolic compounds, which provide various health benefits.

The antioxidants and bioactive compounds in millets have been linked to anti-aging, anti-carcinogenic, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties, making them a valuable addition to a balanced diet.

What is the Status of millets in India:

India, Nigeria and China are the largest producers of millets in the world, accounting for more than 55% of the global production.

 In India, pearl millet is the fourth-most widely cultivated food crop after rice, wheat and maize.

Major producers of millets include Rajasthan, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Haryana.