As global awareness about healthy eating rises, multigrain foods have gained popularity for their nutritious and convenient offerings. They cater to a variety of consumers, from busy professionals seeking quick yet wholesome meals to health enthusiasts in search of nutrient-rich options. Multigrain products not only combine various grains but also enhance taste and nutritional content. On this World Food Day, we consulted Nadiya Merchant, Associate Director of Nutrition at Kellanova India, who sheds light on the significance of multigrain in our diets and its role in promoting balanced nutrition.
Understanding Multigrain
Multigrain refers to products made from or containing multiple types of grains, such as wheat, oats, rice, barley, rye, and corn, among others. According to a 2022 study, these products offer a broader range of nutrients compared to single-grain foods. By blending different grains, multigrain products help bridge nutritional gaps that a single grain might not provide. Moreover, using a combination of grains can help preserve nutrients often lost during processing, making multigrain options a healthier choice.
Multigrain foods are valued for their diverse nutrient profiles and health benefits. Incorporating multigrain into your diet allows you to enjoy the distinct flavors and textures each grain brings. Grains like cereals, millets, and pulses not only deliver energy but also essential nutrients, including protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Whole grain multigrain products are particularly sought after, as they typically contain higher levels of key nutrients compared to refined grains.
Nutritional Benefits of Multigrain
Grains provide a wealth of nutritional benefits. While staples like wheat, rice, and oats are commonly consumed, millets such as ragi (finger millet), bajra (pearl millet), and jowar (sorghum) are increasingly featured in various products due to their health advantages.
Merchant points out, “Wheat is rich in protein, B vitamins, and dietary fiber that promotes digestive health, while ragi is an excellent source of calcium and iron, essential for bone health and combating iron deficiency.” Bajra is nutritionally dense, providing energy, dietary fiber, and a balanced amino acid profile, along with numerous vitamins and antioxidants. Jowar, which is high in protein and fiber, supports overall energy levels. Oats, renowned for their soluble fiber content, help lower cholesterol and improve heart health.
The Rise of Millets
The resurgence of millets in our diets has been spurred by initiatives like the United Nations declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets. This has rekindled interest in ancient grains like ragi, bajra, and jowar. In addition to their nutritional benefits, these grains address modern challenges such as food security, climate change, and poverty, making them increasingly appealing to consumers. Notably, India is leading the millet revival movement, paving the way for a healthier and culturally rich food future.
Convenience and Flavor in Multigrain Products
“Multigrain products perfectly balance convenience, nutrition, and taste,” Merchant explains. They are widely available in supermarkets, appealing to busy consumers who prioritize time-saving meal options. With fast-paced lifestyles, many people prefer quick-to-prepare, easy-to-store foods.
Multigrain lends itself to various convenient formats, including snacks, premixes, and ready-to-eat options. These products provide nourishing solutions for those with limited time for meal prep. Innovations in multigrain offerings include ready-to-eat cereals enriched with fruits, nuts, and seeds, as well as multigrain snacks that blend health benefits with enjoyable flavors.
Conclusion
With the growing demand for healthy and convenient food options, we can expect a continued rise in innovative multigrain products. Whether as a quick snack, a nutritious breakfast, or a wholesome meal, multigrain options are poised to remain a staple in health-conscious diets worldwide.
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