Millets: Bronze Age Staple, Not Just a Modern Trend

New research reveals that millets, particularly broomcorn millet, were widely consumed in Europe as far back as the Bronze Age (circa 1500 BC), challenging the notion that they’re merely a modern health fad. The study uses isotope analysis to confirm their deep-rooted presence in ancient diets.

Millets offered significant nutritional advantages—they’re gluten-free and packed with essential nutrients. Their resilience and short growing cycle enabled widespread cultivation, transforming agricultural systems and impacting social structures of the time.

Today, these ancient grains are regaining popularity, praised not just for their nutrient profile, but for their historical role in sustaining early communities. The findings underscore that the current “ancient-grain” movement is a revival of culinary heritage rather than a passing dietary trend .
*This news has been published on Times of India on 06th June 2025