There are a few reasons why millets have been consumed less in recent years.
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Firstly, as urbanization increased, people’s palates began to change. Rice and wheat became the main staples in urban areas, and people became more accustomed to eating these grains. As a result, millets, which were considered to be thicker and less refined, were looked down upon in rural areas and even by those who grew them for sustenance. This shift in mindset contributed to a decrease in the consumption of millets.
Secondly, urban food practices became aspirational. Westernized diets and processed foods became increasingly popular, and people started to perceive millets as less desirable. These changes in dietary preferences influenced consumer choices and contributed to the decrease in millet consumption.
Additionally, the availability and accessibility of millets also played a role in their declining consumption. With the rise of large-scale industrial farming, the focus shifted to producing high-yield crops like rice and wheat, leading to a decrease in millet cultivation. This, in turn, made millets less readily available in the market, making it harder for people to incorporate them into their diets.
It’s worth noting that millets have numerous health benefits. They are gluten-free, rich in nutrients, and have a low glycemic index, making them suitable for people with dietary restrictions or those looking for healthier food options. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in millets due to their nutritional value, and efforts are being made to promote their consumption and reintroduce them into mainstream diets.
In conclusion, the shift in mindset, changing dietary preferences, and limited availability have all contributed to the decreased consumption of millets. However, with increased awareness of their health benefits, there is hope for a revival of millets as a nutritious and sustainable food option in the future.