Innovative Millet-Based Foods Take Center Stage at Bengaluru International Trade Fair

In the bustling city of Bengaluru, an international trade fair has become the crucible for innovative food items made predominantly from millets. The University of Agricultural Sciences-Raichur (UAS-Raichur) has outshone all other institutions in Karnataka by developing an impressive range of over 100 millet-based products. From pizzas and burgers to sweets and cold coffee, these concoctions are not only a testament to the versatility of millets, but also a healthier alternative to their conventional counterparts.

Revolutionizing Traditional Food Items

UAS-Raichur’s offerings are free from preservatives and refined flour (maida), instead employing whole wheat flour as a healthier substitute. One of their unique products is the baked millet chakkuli, a version of the traditionally fried snack that retains the taste while significantly reducing the unhealthy aspects. This innovation is indicative of the institute’s broader approach to millet utilization – one that marries traditional food culture with the demands of modern health-conscious consumers.

Mimicking the Appearance of Rice

In a masterstroke of food engineering, UAS-Raichur has created restructured particles of Little Millet that mimic the appearance of rice grains. This ingenious innovation caters to those who prefer the look and feel of rice in their meals, offering them a healthier alternative without compromising the visual appeal. The work, conducted at the university’s Centre of Excellence of Millets, demonstrates the potential of millets to replace conventional grains in a variety of dishes.

From Seed to Shelf: UAS-Raichur’s Millet Value Chain Park

The university is not just stopping at creating innovative products. UAS-Raichur is set to establish a Millet Value Chain Park that will provide an end-to-end solution for millet-based production. From sowing seeds to adding value to the final product, this initiative will streamline the process of bringing millet-based foods to market. The park, which was sanctioned in 2021, is expected to be operational within the next six months.