A Commentary on Millets for Enhancing Agri-economy, Nutrition, Environmental, and Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

The IUFoST Scientific Roundtable celebrated the International Year of Millets 2023 by convening an international team of experts to discuss the value of millets relative to agri-economy, nutrition, bioactives, environmental and our delivery on the global development agenda and its sustainable development goals (SDGs).  The experts advanced critical analyses that suggested this semi-arid crop, grown primarily in the tropics of Asia and Africa can be an important contributor to improving food and nutrition security.  Importantly, millets are a major source of energy and protein for about 130 million people in sub-Saharan Africa.  Many in vitro and in vivo (mouse) studies plus a few meta-analyses and systematic reviews suggest millets and their respective components may contribute to the reduction of an array of non-communicable diseases, especially in marginal and harsh environments.  Yet these kinds of evidence need to be substantiated by rigorous, well-designed clinical studies such that there is stronger support for millets contributing to global health.  In addition, improvements and adoption of technologies that provide a low carbon and water footprint may contribute to consumer acceptance of millets.