Revolutionary nutrient-packed product made from bajra, cowpea seeds and bay leaves
MANDI (Munish Sood)
In a remarkable step towards promoting health and nutrition, Prof Tara Devi Sen, Head of Department of Botany at Valabh Government College in Mandi, has filed a patent for her latest innovation: nutrient-rich millet cookies made from finger millet (ragi), Mucuna pruriens (cowpea seeds) and Cinnamomum tamala (bay leaves).
The patent, filed under application number 202511008625, reflects her commitment to creating health-boosting foods that blend traditional ingredients with modern science.
Addressing growing demand for healthy snacks
With consumers increasingly prioritising low-calorie, nutritious options, the demand for balanced snacks has surged. Recognising this trend, Sen developed a unique cookie formula that offers an exceptional combination of taste, health and medicinal properties.
Instead of refined flour, these cookies use finger millet and wheat flour, significantly enhancing their fiber and nutrient content. Traditional sugar has been replaced with jaggery powder, making these cookies a wholesome, health-friendly snack suitable for all age groups.
Local collaboration fueling innovation
Tara Devi Sen’s innovation was not a solo endeavour. In collaboration with self-help groups in Gohar block and local cookie vendor Deepak, she developed and perfected the recipe.
The cookies debuted as refreshments during a one-day training session on “Value Addition and Processing of Medicinal Plants”, organised by the Regional Centre RCFC-NR, Jogindernagar, under the National Medicinal Plants Board (NMPB) in January.
Farmers from Haryana, Uttar Pradesh and Punjab not only relished the cookies but also lauded their health benefits, indicating the potential for these cookies to gain popularity across regions.
Science behind taste: Closer look at key ingredients
Sen’s millet cookies are more than just a snack — they are a scientifically backed nutritional powerhouse. Each ingredient contributes unique health benefits:
Finger Millet (Ragi): A blessing for bones and digestion
- Rich in calcium, strengthening bones and preventing osteoporosis
- High fiber content, regulating blood sugar levels and improving digestion
- Gluten-free, making it an excellent choice for individuals with gluten sensitivities
Mucuna pruriens (cowpea seeds): Brain and muscle booster
Locally known as ‘Dragal’, cowpea seeds are rich in medicinal properties despite their mischievous reputation in rural folklore. Traditionally used in winter laddus, these seeds have long been recognized for their health benefits.
- A natural source of L-DOPA, supporting brain health and dopamine production
- Helps in reducing stress and combating depression
- Protein-rich, promoting muscle strength and overall vitality
Cinnamomum tamala (bay leaves): Immunity and digestive aid
- Contains powerful antioxidants that support heart health and boost immunity
- Aids digestion, alleviating gas and bloating
- Naturally extends the shelf life of food products due to its preservative qualities
Transformative step toward healthier future
Tara Devi Sen’s millet cookies represent more than just an innovative snack; they are a symbol of sustainable health practices and the blending of traditional wisdom with modern science.
The cookies cater to health-conscious individuals seeking nutritious, flavorful and medicinally enriched food options.
This patent-pending innovation not only offers a healthier alternative to conventional snacks but also holds the potential to revolutionise the health food sector. Sen’s work is an inspiring example of how local resources and traditional knowledge can be leveraged to create products with global appeal.
Empowering local communities and promoting self-reliance
Sen’s innovation extends beyond the kitchen. By collaborating with self-help groups, her work provides economic opportunities for local communities, encouraging self-reliance and the promotion of indigenous products.
This isn’t her first foray into food innovation. Sen has previously developed five herbal food products, many of which are already being produced and sold by various self-help groups, contributing to local economic growth.
