Characterization of Proso Millet Grown as a Second Crop in Minnesota

Introduction: Millet is a drought-tolerant, nutritious grain that is well suited for both diabetics and people with celiac disease. Among the millet varieties, Proso millet has not been utilized for food products to the same extent as other millet varieties. As part of an ongoing evaluation of Proso millet as a second crop (in combination with Camelina or field pennycress) in Minnesota, the aim of our work was to characterize six varieties of decorticated Proso millet grown in two Minnesota locations in 2015 and compare them to a commercial millet sample. Method: Proximate analysis was conducted using standard methods. Total, digestible, and damaged starch was determined using enzymatic assays. Other properties determined included color on a Minolta chromameter, pasting profiles with a micro viscoamylograph, and optimum water absorption on a farinograph. The phenolic and carotenoid profiles were analyzed with HPLC, and antioxidant activity via two in vitro assays (Folin-Ciocalteu and 1,1-Diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl assay). The test weight, protein solubility, and digestibility were also assessed. Significance: Our characterization of the investigated Proso millets will lead to the selection of those varieties for future breeding purposes that are best suited for the production of specific cereal-based goods such as wafers, cookies, or bread. Results: Moisture contents and test weights were inversely correlated, with growing location influencing these properties to a higher extent than variety. Sample color most notably differed in lightness and yellowness, indicating differences in carotenoid content. Lipid contents tended to be higher in the samples grown at the location that led to higher moisture contents. In addition, some varieties displayed higher lipid contents than others. Dietary fiber contents tended not to be influenced by growing location; however, there were differences among varieties. Preliminary results indicate that the commercial millet had a higher setback value in the pasting profile, but peak viscosities were similar. Other data is currently being collected.