Nutrition bar made from Makhana and Sawa of North Bihar has health-promoting properties : A groundbreaking research study
Indian government’s millet mission received a significant boost recently as a research team, led by the Hon’ble Vice Chancellor Prof. Dinesh Chandra Rai, BRA Bihar University, successfully formulated a super nutrient energy bar using leftover millet processing unit. The breakthrough was recently published in the reputed international journal Food Chemistry: Molecular Sciences having an outstanding Impact Factor of 4.1 and Q1 rated journal, highlighting the potential benefits of this innovation. Reasearch team of VC Prof. Rai included h Dr. Arvind Kumar, Assistant Professor, Department of Dairy Science and Food Technology, Institute Of Agricultural Sciences, Banaras Hindu University, Varanasi, Uttar Pradesh, and Mr. Manish Kumar Singh, Assistant Professor, Department of Food Technology, School of Engineering and Technology, Mizoram University, Aizwal, Mizoram.
Vice Chancellor Prof. Dinesh Chandra Rai talking on the significance of this research said, Millet, a drought-resistant crop, has been gaining popularity in India due to its nutritional value and sustainability. However, a significant amount of millet byproducts are generated during the processing of millet grains, which often go to waste. Recognizing this issue, his team worked tirelessly to develop a solution that can utilize these byproducts effectively. Prof. Rai said the Indian government is actively working through its Millet Mission to increase millet production and consumption, with a focus on creating awareness among farmers for nutri-cereals such as ragi, sorghum, bajra, and small millets. The government has also declared millets as a nutritious cereal and included them under the Poshan Mission campaign. Additionally, India is contributing to the MIIRA initiative, which aims to promote millets globally and increase investment in the sector. He and his team is very happy to contribute their part in India’s Millete Mission.
VC Prof. Rai further said that the newly formulated super nutrient energy bar is not only a delicious and convenient snack but also a powerhouse of nutrients. It is rich in fiber, protein, and essential vitamins and minerals, making it a perfect option for people looking for a healthy and sustainable snack alternative. This millet and foxnut-based nutritional bar has several bioactive compounds that exhibit different therapeutic values including anti-cancer, heart health promotion, anti-inflammatory, diabetic reducing, anti-microbial, etc. This work highlights the valorized bar is a functional snack food for consumers of all age groups.
The impact of this innovation goes beyond just reducing food waste. It also contributes to the government’s millet mission, which aims to promote the cultivation and consumption of millets in India. By creating value-added products from millet byproducts, this research has the potential to boost the millet industry and provide additional income opportunities for farmers.
Research in the food industry should always focus on the benefits to farmers.This type of research can provide valuable insights into sustainable practices, market trends, and innovations that can improve the livelihoods of farmers. By understanding the needs and challenges faced by farmers, the food industry can develop solutions that support and empower farmers in their agricultural practices, Vice- Chancellor Prof. Rai concluded with this remark.
Researchers and faculty members from both Banaras Hindu University (BHU) and Babasaheb Bhimrao Ambedkar Bihar University (BRA Bihar University) congratulated the Vice-Chancellor and his team for their groundbreaking research. Among those extending congratulations were LS College Principal Prof. Omprakash Roy, Proctor Prof. B S Rai, Registrar Dr. Aprajita Krishna, PRO Prof. Rajeev Jha, College Inspector (Arts) Prof. Rajeev Kumar, BRA Bihar university Alumni Association Vice President Dr. Sanjay Sinha, Registrar, LNMCBM Dr. Shartendu Shekhar, Dr. Navin Kumar, and other distinguished members of the research fraternity.