Millets

Millets are a group of highly variable small-seeded grasses, widely grown around the world as cereal crops or grains for fodder and human food. They are indigenous to many parts of the world, specifically semi-arid regions of Asia and Africa. Historically, millets were among the first plants to be domesticated and have served as a staple for human consumption for thousands of years, particularly in prehistoric societies in East Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

In the modern market, millets are sold under various brands rather than one single global owner. Many prominent health-food brands and regional agricultural cooperatives distribute these grains. Because millets are a commodity, they are cultivated and processed in multiple countries; however, India is the world's largest producer of millets, followed by several African nations like Niger and China. The ownership of specific millet-based products depends on the consumer brand (such as 24 Mantra, Bob's Red Mill, or Arrowhead Mills), but as a crop, they are managed by local farmers and international agricultural trade bodies.

Millets have gained significant global attention recently as a climate-resilient and nutrient-dense 'superfood.' This led to the United Nations declaring 2023 as the International Year of Millets to promote their cultivation and consumption. Today, they are found in various forms, including whole grains, flours, and processed snacks, often marketed by companies focused on organic and gluten-free dietary needs.