Lakshmiprasanna Kata1, Aparna Kuna2 and Zubeda Sohan
Abstract
This study evaluated the nutritional quality of major cereals and millets grown in South India, including rice, maize, sorghum, wheat, bajra, and foxtail millet. Proximate composition, mineral content, and amino acid profiles were analyzed using standard methods. Significant variation was observed among cereals, with sorghum and maize showing higher protein content, and bajra exhibiting higher fat, energy, iron, and zinc levels. Wheat was rich in calcium, while polished rice had lower nutrient content compared to brown rice. Amino acid analysis revealed glutamate as the dominant amino acid, and foxtail millet recorded the highest essential amino acid content. Overall, millets demonstrated superior nutritional quality, highlighting their potential in improving dietary diversity and addressing nutrient deficiencies.