Millets - The future of climate friendly agriculture
The United Nations declared 2023 as the International Year of Millets. The Government of India has made the export of millets and value-added millet products a cornerstone of their future food security strategy. So what makes these small-seeded grains so special? And why should you start caring about them?
Millet Facts
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Millets are a group of small-seeded grains grown throughout Asia & Africa for centuries
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There are 10+ varieties millets including sorghum, proso millet, pearl millet, finger millet, foxtail millet, barnyard millet, little millet and more
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Typically grown in dry, arid, desert like conditions due to their ability to survive high temperatures and drought-like conditions --> They even grow better the hotter it is!!
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Capable of surviving in temperatures up to 122F, while common grains such as wheat, rice and corn cannot grow in temperatures exceeding 100F!!
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Able to withstand prolonged periods of water stress due to their deep roots and ability to retain small amounts of water
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Require ~3.5-4x less water than rice to grow!!
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Do not require pesticides or fertilizers to grow (i.e., naturally organic)!!
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Typically grown by smallholder farmers on <1 acre plots, across Northern India (e.g., Rajasthan, Gujarat)
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Naturally gluten free and a powerhouse of plant protein, prebiotic fiber, iron, zinc, potassium, magnesium and other essential vitamins & minerals
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Most importantly, millets are versatile & delicious, capable of being used in cakes, breads, salads and more!!
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