Examing the Relationship between Consumption Patterns and Health Benefits of Millet-Based Food Products in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh

This study examines the relationship between consumption patterns and the health benefits of millet-based food products in Gwalior, Madhya Pradesh. The global trend toward health-conscious eating and the increasing recognition of the nutritional benefits of millets have spurred interest in incorporating millets into daily diets. Millets are rich in essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and have been shown to offer various health benefits, including aiding in weight management, improving digestive health, and managing chronic conditions like diabetes. Despite these advantages, millet-based foods have not yet seen widespread adoption, where traditional food habits and preferences remain dominant. Using a sample of 384 respondents, this research explores the factors influencing millet consumption in Gwalior, focusing on demographic characteristics (age, gender, income, education), awareness of health benefits, frequency of consumption, and the barriers to millet adoption. The study utilizes a structured questionnaire to collect data, and statistical analyses were performed to identify key correlations and patterns in consumption behavior. The findings show that while there is growing awareness of millets' health benefits, factors such as taste preferences, limited availability, and cultural resistance to changing traditional diets act as significant barriers to the increased adoption of millet-based foods.