|
|
| |
| Ethno-production and Utilization Practices of Foxtail Millet (Setaria italica (L.) P. Beauv) in Northern Mindanao, Philippines |
Raquel Oclarit-Salingay, Agripina R. Aradilla, Nenita B. Baldo, Ma. Stella M. Paulican
|
Abstract:
Mainstream agriculture focused on major staples compromising genetic diversity, local knowledge, and food and nutrition security. Foxtail Millet, a minor cereal, is climate resilient yet an uncirculated traditional food crop. Its grits is nutrient-rich which could be an alternative human food and feeds. This study was conducted to evaluate the ethno-production and utilization practices of the crop in Northern Mindanao, Philippines. Data were obtained from 30 key informants through a semi-structured questionnaire and data were statistically analyzed using the MaxQDA software. Farmer-respondents identified five planting methods (broadcast, drill, hill, dibble, transplanting) and four fertilization practices (goat manure plus foliar fertilizer, synthetic fertilizers, fermented "tubog" with "kuhol" juice, and fermented "tubog" with sunflower leaves) employed in raising the crop although some of them did not apply fertilizers. Foxtail Millet has varied folkloric uses, as human food, animal feed, and as medicine. Its grains are utilized as feeds of newly hatched chicks while milled grits and flour are processed into "biko", "suman", "puto", "binignit", "dawacaldo", hotcake and wine. Grains are also utilized as fever anti-suppressant, and for viral infection and measles. It is said to cure indigestion, boost the immune system of teething infants and for aroma therapy to prevent the spread of air-borne diseases. Foxtail Millet has been under-cultivated and underutilized in the Philippines. Research undertakings may be geared at re-introduction, collection, identification and multiplication of the remaining cultivars. The development of processing equipment such as thresher and milling machine should also be taken into consideration.
|
|
|
| | |