Grain Amaranth: A Climate-smart and Nutrient-Rich Potential Crop

Abstract

Grain amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) is one of the potential pseudocereals known for its protein (15%) and amino acids (Lysine 5%), and mineral composition. Amaranth demonstrates a high tolerance for challenging factors such as drought, saline soils, and frost. Its cultivation in Gujarat has gained momentum compared to other parts of the country. Hence, this review aimed to collect information about grain amaranth with respect to research and development in the country.  In Gujarat, the Palanpur APMC (Agricultural Produce Market Committee) market of Banaskantha district is one of the biggest markets for amaranth grain selling/purchasing, from where the grain is exported to other parts of the country. The area and consumer preference for grain amaranth are also increasing in Karnataka because of its nutritional qualities. Comparatively, grain amaranth is one of the profitable crops as compared to other regularly grown crops like finger millet and maize in Karnataka. In Europe, pseudo cereals are a specialised market with rising yearly requests. North America, Latin America, the Middle East, Europe, Africa and the Asia Pacific region are the grain amaranth’s primary trade routes. The global amaranth market is anticipated to grow with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.4% over the period. Meeting international quality standards opens the door to global trade, especially as the demand for nutritious, sustainable foods grows. Value-added products like amaranth oil (with its squalene content) and nutraceuticals from leaf extracts offer further market opportunities. Lacking awareness about health benefits among people, tiny seeds of amaranth have low yield potential, and no mechanisation is available in this crop, restricting area expansion. Scope for crop improvement for higher test weight and mechanisation for sowing and harvesting will help farmers for cultivation in future.