Chia (Salvia hispanica L): A Nutri-rich Potential Crop, its present Scenario and Future Perspectives in India.

Chia (Salvia hispanica L.) was used as a super food from ancient times. In recent days with increase in the health awareness throughout the world, it demands for healthy food, using chia seeds in daily diet may prevent many diseases (diabetes, obesity and cardiovascular). Chia was domesticated almost 4,500 years ago in Mesoamerica and it was used as food and medicine. Chia seed is composed of high dietary fibre (18-30%), ash (4-5%), protein (15-25%), fats (30-33%), lipids (31-35%), carbohydrates (26-41%), minerals, vitamins and a high amount of antioxidants. It is having higher concentration of PUFAs (Poly Unsaturated Fatty Acids) of omega-3 (58-64% of the total lipids) and omega-6 essential fatty acids. Notably, chia seeds are free of gluten. It may be added to other foods as topping materials. Nutritional composition and health benefits of chia are presented here to create awareness. In recent years, India is one of the major producers and exporters of chia. Karnataka alone occupies more than 50 per cent of area of our country. Research on chia is gaining momentum for increasing productivity, but crop improvement research is lacking because of limited germplasm in this crop. Chia seeds are among the majorly exported commodities as the production of the commodity is limited to a few geographies. However, the COVID pandemic has increased the health consciousness among consumers, which has opened an opportunity for super foods, including chia seeds. This factor is anticipated to propel the market during the 2020-26. The Global Chia Seeds Market is projected to grow at a significant rate of 8.86 per cent from 2019 to 2024 to reach a market value of USD 450 million by the end of 2024. Information contained in this review can be useful for health conscious people who want to be healthy through natural foods. This paper describes the huge nutritional and therapeutic potential of chia seed to make it the part of an average diet for better health and longevity. Present scenario in the country and future market potential in the country are also reviewed. Successful cultivation of chia crop in India will improve economic condition, living standards and health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]