Have you ever stood in front of the supermarket shelf and asked yourself what the difference is between normal millet and golden millet? Since the grain is available in numerous varieties, it is no wonder that you quickly lose track. However, on this page you will find a detailed answer to your question.
Golden millet is a subspecies of millet
fundamental difference
Millet is one of the seven grains that contribute an important part to the food supply of the world population. The collective term is divided into two subcategories:
- the sorghum, which includes the large-grain varieties
- and millet with small grains
Golden millet is a special subspecies that belongs to the millet millet family.
Other differences at a glance
color
Millet comes in many different colors on the plate. This property reveals a lot about the ingredients that are in the respective variety. The yellowish color of golden millet suggests a high carotene content. Especially in growing areas with a hot climate, millet species develop a golden to red color. Other millet varieties, on the other hand, are white and glassy and have a high protein content.
processing
Unprocessed millet has a hard shell. This is a whole grain product, so to speak. Golden millet differs in that it is dehusked before it is sold. Unfortunately, valuable ingredients are lost as a result. However, the peeled grain is more digestible and has a delicate consistency.
health value
A third criterion ultimately results from the two differences already mentioned: the health value. Too high a quantity is not recommended for many millet varieties. The tannins contained are particularly critical. They bind calcium and iron and thus inhibit their absorption. However, golden millet has such a low proportion of this plant substance that consumption is completely harmless, even in large quantities. However, some millet varieties, which are almost exclusively eaten in Africa, lead to a mineral deficiency.
Although the health value of millet and golden millet varies, the grain still contributes to a balanced diet.