Why Millet, Quinoa, and Amaranth Should Be Considered the Grains of the Future?

Authors

  • Paloma De Souza Silva Postgraduate Program in Nutrition and Health, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES
  • José Luis Ramírez Ascheri Food Extrusion and Physical Properties Lab, Embrapa Food Technology, Av. das Américas, 29501, Guaratiba, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
  • Diego Palmiro Ramírez Ascheri Postgraduate of Agricultural Engineering Course, UEG -Anápolis Campus of Exact and Technological Sciences - Henrique Santillo, Br 153, 3105, Fazenda Barreiro do Meio, Anápolis, Goiás, Brazil
  • Arturo Meléndez Arévalo Postgraduate Program Food Science and Technology. Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro; BR 467, km 7, 23890-000, Seropedica, RJ, Brazil
  • Ronel Joel Bazán Colque Postgraduate Program Food Science and Technology. Federal Rural University of Rio de Janeiro; BR 467, km 7, 23890-000, Seropédica, RJ, Brazil
  • Erika Madeira Moreira da Silva Postgraduate Program in Nutrition and Health, Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Espírito Santo, Vitória, ES, Brazil

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14738/tnc.124.17449

Keywords:

Ancients’ grains, sustainability, nutrition quality, climate changes, alert for the future

Abstract

The consequences of climate change on the performance of grain and cereal crops are profound and multifaceted, affecting crop yields, nutritional quality, and food security. The impacts are particularly severe for vulnerable populations, exacerbating hunger, malnutrition, and socio-economic challenges. Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive approach, including investment in climate-resilient agricultural practices, improved infrastructure, and effective policies to support food security and sustainable development. By understanding and mitigating the impacts of climate change on agriculture, we can work towards a more secure and sustainable future for global food systems. The increasing demand for sustainable, nutritious, and resilient food sources is steering global attention towards ancient grains. Millet (Pennisetum glaucum), quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa), and amaranth (Amaranthus spp), often termed "super grains," offer unique advantages that make them prime candidates for addressing future food security. This dissertation explores the nutritional, agricultural, environmental, and economic aspects of millet, quinoa, and amaranth, highlighting why they should be considered the grains of the future.

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Abstract Graphic Abstract Graphic. Mind map diagram to illustrate the different ways of marketing millet. Complementary Graphics Millet Aminoacid Prfile. Bar chart showing the fatty acid composition of millet, detailing the amounts of saturated fatty acids (SFAs), monounsaturated fatty acids (MUFAs), polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), linoleic acid (omega-6), and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3) per 100 grams. Products made with grains and millet flour. from an Agroindustry in India. Source: https://www.suite42.in/contract-manufacturing-your-partner-in-millet-based-new-productdevelopment/Products made from quinoa and amaranth grains, Mexico. Source: http://www.teorema.com.mx/tendencias/amaranto-y-quinua-la-nueva-mina-de-oro-alimenticio/

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Published

2024-08-23

How to Cite

De Souza Silva, P., Ramírez Ascheri, J. L., Ramírez Ascheri, D. P., Meléndez Arévalo, A., Bazán Colque, R. J., & Moreira da Silva, E. M. (2024). Why Millet, Quinoa, and Amaranth Should Be Considered the Grains of the Future?. Discoveries in Agriculture and Food Sciences, 12(4), 89–109. https://doi.org/10.14738/tnc.124.17449