Food and Potential Industrial Applications of Bambara Groundnut

Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) is a crop native to Mali, known for its drought tolerance, high protein and carbohydrate content, and industrial potential. It can be used to produce edible bioplastics, soluble fiber, and value-added products.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 237 pages
Publication date: 08 October 2022
Publisher: Springer Nature Switzerland AG

The Bambara groundnut (Vigna subterranea) holds significant importance as a crop native to the Bambara tribe of Mali, serving as a vital subsistence crop across Africa. However, recent advancements in research have catapulted this crop to the forefront of the sustainable agriculture movement. The Bambara plant boasts remarkable drought tolerance and is packed with essential nutrients, including starch. These macromolecules hold immense industrial potential, as evidenced by the higher viscosity of Bambara grain starch compared to conventional corn starch. Modified Bambara groundnut starch has been utilized to create edible bioplastics that can be further industrialized to align with the demands of the fourth industrial revolution. Moreover, Bambara plants serve as a natural source of soluble fiber, free from gluten, lactose, and cholesterol. This fiber possesses remarkable properties as a stabilizer, thickener, gelling agent, and even a cryoprotectant in frozen products. The health benefits associated with Bambara groundnut include cholesterol reduction, blood glucose regulation, and detoxification support. Furthermore, researchers have delved into the grain's potential as a standalone product or in combination with cereal and tubers to develop value-added products.

Food and Potential Industrial Applications of Bambara Groundnut is a comprehensive and well-organized resource that presents the latest research findings on Bambara grain and its remarkable potential as a food and industrial crop. The book offers a clear and concise overview of the crop's history, cultivation, nutritional value, and industrial applications. It highlights the crop's drought tolerance, nutrient composition, and the various industrial processes that can be employed to extract valuable products.

One of the key chapters in the book explores the nutritional benefits of Bambara groundnut. It discusses the rich protein and carbohydrate content of the grain, including starch, which holds immense industrial potential. The authors highlight the higher viscosity of Bambara grain starch compared to conventional corn starch, making it suitable for various applications such as bioplastics, food additives, and packaging materials. The use of modified Bambara groundnut starch in the production of edible bioplastics has gained significant attention, as it offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional plastics.

Furthermore, the book delves into the potential industrial applications of Bambara groundnut. It explores the use of soluble fiber derived from the grain as a stabilizer, thickener, and gelling agent in various food products. The fiber's gluten-, lactose-, and cholesterol-free nature makes it an ideal ingredient for individuals with dietary restrictions or health concerns. The authors discuss the potential of Bambara groundnut fiber in the development of gluten-free bread, pasta, and other food products.

In addition to its nutritional and industrial applications, Bambara groundnut also holds significance in sustainable agriculture. The crop is highly drought-tolerant and can be grown in marginal and arid regions, where other crops struggle to thrive. Its ability to produce food and generate income for local communities makes it a valuable asset in poverty alleviation and food security efforts.

The book also provides valuable insights into the research and development efforts surrounding Bambara groundnut. It highlights the work of researchers and scientists who have dedicated their time and resources to studying the crop's potential and developing innovative technologies to improve its productivity and quality. The authors discuss the challenges faced by farmers in growing and processing Bambara groundnut and provide recommendations for sustainable farming practices to ensure the long-term viability of the crop.

Overall, Food and Potential Industrial Applications of Bambara Groundnut is a comprehensive and authoritative resource that provides valuable information on the crop's potential as a food and industrial crop. The book offers a deep understanding of the crop's biology, cultivation, and industrial applications, making it an essential read for researchers, policymakers, industry professionals, and anyone interested in sustainable agriculture and food production.

Weight: 397g
Dimension: 235 x 155 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783030739225
Edition number: 1st ed. 2021