POST-HARVEST PROCESSING METHODS OF MAJOR MILLETS:A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Post-harvest processing plays a vital role in improving the quality, nutritional value, shelf life, and marketability of millets,
which are increasingly recognized as climate-resilient and nutrient-rich cereals. This review synthesizes recent national and
international research on the major post-harvest processing methods employed for millets, including harvesting, threshing, drying,
cleaning, grading, storage, dehulling, pearling, polishing, and milling. Scientific processing technologies significantly reduce quantitative
and qualitative post-harvest losses while enhancing grain recovery, processing efficiency, and consumer acceptability. The
review highlights the importance of harvesting at physiological maturity, controlled drying, efficient cleaning and grading, scientific
storage, and modern dehulling and milling techniques in preserving nutritional quality and minimizing processing losses. Furthermore,
emerging technologies such as moisture conditioning, hydrothermal pretreatment, solar-assisted drying, and mechanized processing
improve nutrient retention, reduce antinutritional factors, and support the development of value-added millet products. The review
also emphasizes the role of post-harvest technologies in strengthening millet value chains, promoting entrepreneurship among
women Self-Help Groups (SHGs) and Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs), and enhancing food and nutritional security.
Overall, adopting scientific post-harvest processing practices is essential for maximizing the economic potential, sustainability,
and commercial utilization of millets while meeting the growing demand for healthy and functional foods.