Pearl Millet: A Sustainable Source of Food and Nutrition in the Age of Climate Change

Abstract

Pearl millet (Pennisetum glaucum) is a climate-resilient cereal grain, crucial for food security in arid and semi-arid regions, particularly in Asia and Africa. This review explores pearl millet’s botanical characteristics, agricultural practices, nutritional value, and biological activities, highlighting its significance in addressing global food security and climate change. Pearl millet is rich in carbohydrates, proteins, essential fatty acids, dietary fibre, and key micronutrients, including iron, zinc, and B vitamins. It also contains bioactive compounds like polyphenols and flavonoids, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, potentially mitigating the risk of chronic diseases. Its tolerance to high temperatures, low rainfall, and poor soil conditions, combined with a short growth cycle and efficient C4 photosynthetic pathway, makes it a sustainable agricultural option. Furthermore, pearl millet has many biological activities, such as anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, antioxidant, and hypoglycemic effects, which suggest that it may help prevent and treat non-communicable diseases. Promoting pearl millet cultivation supports crop diversification, sustainable farming systems, reduced greenhouse gas emissions, and enhanced food security in the face of global climate challenges.