Maize nutritional quality and value addition: a brief overview

Abstract

Maize is a major cereal crop that is known as the “Queen of Cereals” due to its numerous uses and high productivity potential. Maize is not only one of the most significant cereal crops in India but the world as well. It is crucial for both human and animal nutrition in general and for fulfilling the calorie and protein needs of millions of people in emerging nations. Due to unhealthy life style and habits of the present generation, many health problems have been noticed in the last two decades. Multigrain concepts of nutrition can play a significant role to mitigate these health challenges. As we all know that maize has a lot of fiber, antioxidants, and other vitamins and minerals. Various value-added products prepared from maize have the potential to alleviate nutritional disorders. In view of above, the current article describes the nutritional quality along with the potential and opportunity for countless value-added products made from maize, which are crucial for dietary and economic stability.