A Comprehensive Review on the Extraction and Determination of Vitamins and Minerals in Kodo Millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum)
Keywords:
Kodo millet, vitamins, minerals, extraction methods, analytical techniques, nutritional analysis, biofortification, food securityAbstract
Kodo millet (Paspalum scrobiculatum) is increasingly recognized as a nutrient dense cereal with substantial potential for addressing micronutrient deficiencies. This review synthesizes current methodologies and emerging approaches in the extraction and determination of vitamins and minerals from kodo millet. Emphasis is placed on its B complex vitamins (thiamine, riboflavin, niacin) and essential minerals (iron, calcium, zinc, magnesium), which collectively offer diverse health benefits. Factors affecting nutrient retention such as antinutritional compounds (phytates, tannins), enzymatic activities, and environmental parameters are discussed in detail, underscoring the complexity of accurately quantifying micronutrients in this grain. The paper examines traditional and modern extraction techniques (solvent based, microwave assisted, enzymatic) as well as advanced analytical tools, including high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS), and other spectroscopic methods. Special attention is afforded to method standardization challenges, the importance of rigorous validation (including the use of certified reference materials), and potential pathways for biofortification and crop improvement. Moreover, the review highlights the cereal’s resilience under marginal growing conditions, aligning its cultivation with the broader goals of sustainable agriculture. By identifying knowledge gaps and proposing harmonized protocols for nutrient analysis, this article seeks to catalyze further research, promote consumer acceptance, and encourage policy support for integrating kodo millet into mainstream diets. Ultimately, leveraging its robust nutritional profile could make kodo millet a vital contributor to addressing malnutrition and advancing global food security initiatives.