Evaluating the physical and chemical contents of millets obtained from South Africa and Zimbabwe

Abstract

Millets which are considered the third most important cereal in Africa have remained underutilised for food and feed. Therefore, the core aim of this study was to evaluate types of millets obtained from South Africa and Zimbabwe for physical and chemical characterization. Catechin and epicatechin were higher for finger millet types. Crude protein and gross energy were similar for all the millets. However, the starch content of the South African finger millet was higher compared to the Zimbabwean type and the pearl millets from both regions. The macro-minerals of the four millets varied with calcium and magnesium being higher in finger millets. All the millet types had abundant potassium which ranged from 3864.60 to 4899.30 mg/kg. Furthermore, the essential amino acids of the millet types differed greatly. Overall, a greater impact on physical and chemical characteristics was influenced by millet type, even though some locational differences were observed. Evaluación del contenido físico y químico del mijo obtenido de Sudáfrica y Zimbabue RESUMEN ARTICLE HISTORY

Nutritional and anti-nutritional potentials and variability among selected finger millet (Eleusine coracana subsp. coracana) landraces of Tigray, northern Ethiopia

“…The growing environment may have an impact on the uptake, translocation, and accumulation of mineral elements [12]. Similar to the current study, variability in mineral contents among different nger millet genotypes was reported in previous studies [21,23,28,29]. One of the best ways to address severe malnutrition issues is through bioforti cation, which increases the density and availability of micronutrients [30].…”

“…Protein is the second major component of nger millet in terms of nutritional content [22], suggesting its potential as an alternative protein source in diets and/or as a supplement, especially for rural communities. The starch content is known as an important determinant of grain yield and quality [23], with the great variability in starch content indicating genetic differences among nger millet landraces and environmental effects. Such a wide variability aligns with ndings from previous studies [24].…”