Protein characteristics, amino acid profile, health benefits and methods of extraction and isolation of proteins from some pseudocereals—a review

Abstract Pseudocereals are the seeds or fruits of non-grass species that can be consumed similarly to cereals. Most commonly used pseudocereals are amaranth, quinoa, buckwheat, chia, album and wattleseeds. These underutilized pseudocereals are good source of essential amino acids, essential fatty acids, phenolic compounds, vitamins, flavonoids and minerals. Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has identified many plants as under-utilized, which can significantly contribute for improving nutrition and health, enhance food basket and livelihoods, future food security and sustainable development. They are reported to have anti-cancerous, cardio-protective, anti-inflammatory, hypocholesterolemic, anti-obesity and antioxidant properties. This review paper portray major pseudocereals with their amino acid composition, methods of extraction and isolation of proteins, effect of processing on the quality of protein and nutritional profile and various health benefits. Graphical Abstract