Research

Agricultural Sciences

Title :

Novel Functional Foods from Millets Fermented beverages and Microgreens for improved gut health and immunity

Area of research :

Agricultural Sciences

Focus area :

Basic Science, Food and agriculture, Health

Principal Investigator :

Dr. Ramalakshmi A, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu (641003), Dr. Umamaheswari T, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Trichy, Tamilnadu (620027), Dr. Geethanjali S, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Trichy, Tamilnadu (620027)

Timeline Start Year :

2024

Timeline End Year :

2026

Contact info :

Details

Executive Summary :

Researchers are exploring functional fermented foods, including millet-based ones, to improve gut health and reduce non-communicable diseases risk. Fermenting these foods with elite Lactobacillus sp. reduces their anti-nutritional properties, enhances immunity, and improves texture and viscosity. The project aims to develop a spicy yoghurt-like fermented beverage from millets, and probioticate traditional millet porridge using retort processing for improved stability. The project also explores the potential of microgreens from millets as super foods, assessing their bioavailability, functionality, and effect on gut microbiota.

Co-PI:

Dr. Balakrishnan M, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu (641003), Dr. Hemalatha G, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamilnadu (625104), Dr. Parimalarangan R, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Coimbatore, Tamilnadu (641003), Dr. Selvi J, Tamil Nadu Agricultural University, Madurai, Tamilnadu (625104)

Total Budget (INR):

71,83,680

Organizations involved