‘Videshi to Swadeshi’: McDonald's serves India's millet bun burger, Centre says move ‘reshaping global food trends’
Union Minister Jitendra Singh noted this reflects India's innovation and aligns with the UN's declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets.
The Centre on Sunday hailed McDonald's move to serve India's millet bun burger and called it the “country's traditional nutrition are reshaping global food trends”.
In a post on X, Union Minister Jitendra Singh said, “Videshi turns to Swadeshi” as the popular international food chain McDonald’s serves India’s “Millet Bun Burger”, prepared using indigenous technology developed by the Mysore based CSIR institute, the “Central Food Technological Research Institute “CFTRI."
He added that this is a "proud moment" showcasing how Indian innovation and traditional nutrition are reshaping global food trends.
Speaking on the new product, Mr. Sanjeev Agrawal, Chairman, McDonald’s India (North & East), said, “McDonald’s has always been a strong believer in the Government’s initiatives and remains committed to creating meaningful collaborations that benefit Indian consumers. The multi-millet bun is a step in that direction, bringing together taste and nutrition while supporting local farmers. This initiative started in McDonald’s Mumbai since then we have been promoting this across our restaurants.”
He further added, "We look forward for many such collaborations with Govt Initiatives to continue to create meaningful differences in the Indian economy and for consumers.”
And, a grand vindication for India’s Millet movement which had gained momentum with the UN declaring 2023 as the ‘International Year of Millets’ at the behest of India with the personal intervention of PM Narendra Modi, he added.
Benefits of millets
Millets are highly nutritious grains that offer numerous health benefits compared to refined cereals like rice or wheat. They are rich in essential nutrients, including iron, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, and B vitamins, which support energy production, bone health, and brain function.
Their high fiber content aids digestion, prevents constipation, and helps maintain a healthy gut.
Because millets have a low glycemic index, they release sugar slowly into the bloodstream, making them excellent for managing blood sugar levels and preventing diabetes. The fibre and protein in millets also promote satiety, helping with weight management, while their antioxidants and minerals support heart health by lowering bad cholesterol. Being naturally gluten-free, millets are suitable for people with gluten intolerance.