Millets were a staple food in many parts of the world, including India, for centuries. However, with the advent of modernization and urbanization, there has been a decline in the consumption of millets.
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One of the key reasons for this decline is the shift in mindset towards more refined grains such as rice and wheat. As urban palates became more accustomed to these grains, millets, which are considered as “thick, unrefined grains” by some, were no longer favored. Urban food practices started becoming aspirational, and people began adopting the eating habits of the urban population, which primarily included rice and wheat.
This shift in mindset also had an impact on rural areas, where millets were traditionally consumed. As people in rural areas started aspiring to the urban way of life, they too started looking down upon the consumption of millets. This led to a reduction in the consumption of these nutritious grains by the farmers who grew them for sustenance.
Furthermore, the increasing availability and promotion of processed and packaged foods, which are often made from refined grains, also contributed to the decline in millet consumption. The convenience and marketing of these processed foods played a role in shaping people’s eating habits and preferences, further pushing millets to the sidelines.
Despite the decline in consumption, it is important to note that millets have several nutritional benefits. They are rich in fiber, protein, and essential minerals like iron and magnesium. They are also gluten-free, making them a suitable choice for people with gluten allergies or intolerances.
In recent years, there has been a growing recognition of the nutritional value of millets and efforts to revive their consumption. They are being promoted as a sustainable and climate-resilient crop and are being reintroduced into diets as a healthy alternative to refined grains. Various organizations, governments, and nutritionists are advocating for the revival of millet consumption and promoting their benefits to consumers.
In conclusion, the decline in the consumption of millets can be attributed to a shift in mindset towards more refined grains, the aspiration for urban food practices, and the increasing availability and promotion of processed foods. However, there is a growing awareness of their nutritional value, leading to efforts to revive their consumption.