Ragi Millet, botanically known as Eleusine coracana, is a highly nutritious cereal grain belonging to the Poaceae family. It is widely cultivated in India and several parts of Africa and is valued for its exceptional nutritional profile and resilience to dry climatic conditions. The grains are tiny, round, and range in colour from reddish-brown to dark brown.
Ragi millet, also known as finger millet, is one of the most widely consumed traditional grains in India and parts of Africa. It is valued for its exceptional nutritional profile and ability to thrive in diverse climatic conditions. Ragi can be used in a variety of preparations including porridge, dosa, idli, rotis, malt beverages, and baked products. It is also commonly milled into flour for everyday cooking.
Nutritionally, ragi is renowned for its high calcium content, making it one of the richest plant-based sources of this essential mineral. It also provides dietary fibre, complex carbohydrates, and moderate amounts of protein, helping support balanced nutrition and sustained energy release.
Ragi contains important minerals such as iron, phosphorus, and magnesium, along with naturally occurring antioxidants and amino acids. Being naturally gluten-free, it is suitable for individuals seeking alternatives to wheat and other gluten-containing grains.
| Energy (Kcal) | 336 |
| Protein (g) | 7.3 |
| Carbohydrate (g) | 72.0 |
| Fat (g) | 1.5 |
| Dietary Fibre (g) | 11.5 |
| Iron (mg) | 3.9 |
| Phosphorus (mg) | 283 |
| Calcium (mg) | 344 |
| Magnesium (mg) | 137 |
| Potassium (mg) | 408 |
| Thiamin (mg) | 0.42 |
| Riboflavin (mg) | 0.19 |
| Niacin (mg) | 1.1 |
Ragi millet is especially valued for its naturally high calcium content, which supports the maintenance of healthy bones and teeth. It is often included in diets aimed at supporting growing children, active individuals, and older adults.
Its rich dietary fibre content promotes digestive health, enhances satiety, and may help support healthy weight management. The complex carbohydrates in ragi provide gradual energy release, helping to avoid sudden fluctuations in energy levels.
Ragi also contains essential amino acids, antioxidants, and minerals such as iron and magnesium that contribute to overall wellness, energy metabolism, and normal body functions.
As a naturally gluten-free grain, ragi millet is suitable for people with gluten sensitivity and can be incorporated into a variety of healthy and balanced meal plans.