Study on the Consumption Pattern of Millets i...

Study on the Consumption Pattern of Millets in South India

Author Name : Ms. Meenu Nixon, Dr. Anu Joseph

ABSTRACT

Background: Millets are considered as an ideal food because of their high nutritive value. Compared to cereals, millets contain high levels of proteins, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. The present study was carried out with the objective of determining the current trend in the consumption pattern of millets in different regions in South India. The study also assessed the factors influencing purchase and consumption of millets, consumer acceptability and awareness on the availability and health benefits of millets. Methodology: A total of 250 adults from South India, comprising 100 subjects  (male and female) from the five states namely Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh  Karnataka  were selected through quota sampling method. The tool selected for conducting the present study was a questionnaire. Considering the present pandemic situation, the questionnaire was circulated as a Google form. The data collected was analysed and interpreted. Results: More than half were found to be  regular consumers of millets, the highest proportion of regular consumers were from Telangana followed by Tamil Nadu while  least  were from Kerala. Majority of the respondents were aware of at least one form of millet. Most popular was Finger Millet. Among the total subjects, majority were aware of the benefits of millets. Consumers in Andhra Pradesh were found to have the highest awareness. Reasons for the unpopularity of millet was limited knowledge on methods of preparation, unacceptable taste, and lack of availability. In Kerala, the major reason attributed to low consumption of the millet was less availability.

Key Words: Awareness; Consumption; Frequency; Households; Millets.