Grain Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.): The Sacred Seed of Ancient Civilizations
摘要
Amaranth is a multispecies crop gaining attention for its remarkable potential to enhance global food security, particularly in developing countries, due to its exceptional nutritional value, strong resilience to abiotic stresses, and adaptability to marginal environments. It serves as a highly nutritious, rich in protein, essential amino acids (like lysine), fiber, and essential minerals. Owing to its easy digestibility over these benefits, amaranth is often referred to as a fasting superfood. Amaranth holds a significant position in the food sector due to the rising demand for gluten-free products and the awareness of its health advantages. Its oil is the richest plant-based source of squalene, which has been used in various industrial and pharmaceutical applications. Additionally, amaranth’s pharmacological characteristics, such as its antioxidant and anticancer activities, point to its potential as a source of medicinal compounds. It is a cost-effective crop for farmers due to its capacity for multiple harvests within a single growing season. Despite being a traditionally underutilized crop, recent breeding advancements have begun to unlock its potential. Grain amaranth species have high genetic variation emphasized as a vital source for breeding initiatives aimed at enhancing crop productivity and resilience. This chapter highlights the necessity of identifying diverse parental lines in germplasm collections through comprehensive characterization, as this can aid in the creation of superior hybrid varieties using current breeding methods. The study also addresses the significance of efficient postharvest management techniques in preserving the viability, quality, and nutritional integrity of amaranth grains, which are essential for maximizing the benefits of amaranth in food systems. Thus, amaranth serve as a climate-resilient crop capable of addressing future food and nutritional security challenges.