Nutritional Composition, Health Benefits and Utilization of Fonio (Digitaria exilis) Grains: A Review.

Abstract

Fonio is a traditional cereal which has often occupied a marginal position among other cereals in most West African countries where it is cultivated. Adequate knowledge on the chemical and nutritional properties, as well as health benefits of fonio is required in its processing and maximum utilization. In this review, the chemical and nutritional characteristics of fonio were identified and compared with those of other major cereals like maize, rice, millet and sorghum. Fonio cereals compared favourably well with these other cereals.