The five millets are:
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1. Sorghum Millet (Jowar): This millet is commonly called Jowar in India. It is a staple crop and widely grown for its grain, which is used for making flour and various food products. Sorghum millet is rich in nutrients like protein, fiber, and minerals, making it a healthy alternative to other grains.
2. Proso Millet (Chena / Barri): Proso millet is a small, round grain that can be easily cooked similar to rice. It is also known as Chena or Barri in some regions. Proso millet is gluten-free and packed with essential nutrients like protein, fiber, and vitamins. It is a popular choice for people with gluten intolerance or following a gluten-free diet.
3. Pearl Millet (Bajra): Pearl millet, also known as Bajra, is one of the oldest cultivated crops in the world. It is commonly grown in dry regions and is a staple food in many parts of India and Africa. Pearl millet grains are rich in complex carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and minerals like iron and magnesium. It is often used to make porridge, rotis (flatbread), and various traditional dishes.
4. Foxtail Millet (Kakum / Kangni): Foxtail millet, also known as Kakum or Kangni, is a small, yellow grain that resembles the shape of a foxtail. It is widely consumed in Asia and Africa. Foxtail millet is gluten-free and rich in antioxidants, fiber, protein, and minerals. It is often used in making porridge, desserts, and as a rice substitute.
5. Finger Millet (Ragi): Finger millet, also called Ragi, is a nutrient-dense millet that is predominantly cultivated in India and Africa. It is a gluten-free grain with a high content of calcium, iron, fiber, and essential amino acids. Finger millet is often ground into flour and used to make traditional dishes like ragi mudde (dumplings), rotis, and porridge.
These five millets offer various health benefits and can be incorporated into a balanced diet. They are rich in nutrients, gluten-free, and suitable for people with certain dietary restrictions. Additionally, millets have gained popularity as climate-smart crops due to their resilience to drought and their ability to grow in diverse agro-ecological regions.