Importance of quinoa and amaranth in food security

Abstract

As a result of increasing population in the India and world, food security has become increasingly dependent on only a few crops with high demanding plant species. The quinoa (Chenopodium quinoa) and amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) are peculiar composition with high nutritional value and rich source of macronutrients and energy. These are called pseudocereals and provide good quality of protein, dietary fiber and lipids rich in unsaturated fatty acids. Amaranth and quinoa are gluten-free grains, having adequate levels of minerals, vitamins, and other bioactive components. Quinoa and amaranth is suitable for diverse consumers groups such as the elderly, children, high-performance athletes, diabetics, celiacs, and gluten or lactose intolerant people. Due to their composition and nutritional facts described for prospective for functional properties such as food supplements or common cereal replacers for human health. A review of the main aspects of amaranth and quinoa as alternative source of nutrient rich gluten free grains which have potential to alleviate hunger and provide food security to the Indian population. It is to be emphasized on the application of the amaranth and quinoa in the value added food for various segments of population; it will also create awareness to the farmers to grow these grains for better earning and livelihood.