MILLET - Panicum miliaceum L. PRODUCTION TREND IN THE WORLD. IMPORTANCE OF MILLET IN NUTRITION AND FOR BIOENERGY

The aim of this study was to examine the productivity of millet (Panicum miliaceum L.; Poaceae) in the world and its importance in the food and in industries. Millet has the least need for water, of other cereals and is a significant crop in sustainable systems. Millet has a high grain yield and is an important source proteins in food. It has high biomass yield which is why it is of great importance in bioenergy production. The priority is to procure raw materials and develop the process of biofuel production in an economical way. Millet grain is rich in iron, calcium and vitamin B complex (B1, B2, B3). In addition to their nutritive value, helps: prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases, reduce tumor incidence, lower blood pressure, the risk of heart disease, cholesterol and rate of fat absorption have been reported for millet.