FROM FIELD TO FORK: THE INFLUENCE OF MAIZE (Zea mays L.) ON HUMAN DEVELOPMENT: A REVIEW
Suresh Babu.C1, Bhargavi G2, Ganesh D Khule3, Samadhan P Khupase4
1Ph.D. (Agriculture) Agronomy Research Scholar, Department of Agronomy, School of Agriculture, SR University, Warangal – 506 371, Telangana, India
2Assistant Professor, Department of Agronomy, School of Agriculture, SR University, Warangal – 506 371, Telangana, India.
3Ph.D. Research Scholar, Warner College of Dairy Technology (WCDT), Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHUATS), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India
4Ph.D. Research Scholar, Department of Food Science & Technology, Warner College of Dairy Technology (WCDT), Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences (SHUATS), Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh, India
ABSTRACT: Maize (Zea mays L.) is a cornerstone crop with profound implications for human development, spanning nutrition, health, agriculture, and industry. As one of the world’s most significant cereal crops, maize provides essential nutrients, vitamins, and phytochemicals that are crucial for human health. These compounds, including carotenoids, phenolic compounds, and resistant starch, contribute to the prevention of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular conditions and certain cancers. Additionally, maize’s potential therapeutic applications, such as its anti-HIV properties due to the presence of Galanthus nivalis agglutinin (GNA) lectin, further underscore its importance in health and medicine. Beyond its nutritional and health benefits, maize plays a critical role in global food security and economic stability. As a cash crop, it enhances the livelihoods of farmers, particularly in developing countries, by providing a reliable source of income. Its versatility extends to its use in sustainable agricultural practices, where it serves as an indicator crop for soil fertility and contributes to the production of biofuels and other industrial products. The plant’s various parts—from grains to roots—are utilized in countless ways, reflecting its broad industrial and domestic applications. The historical significance of maize, from its early cultivation by ancient civilizations to its global spread, highlights its enduring relevance to humanity. As the global population continues to rise, so does the demand for maize, necessitating innovative cultivation strategies to ensure its availability and efficacy in addressing food security challenges. The crop’s ability to support human health, improve agricultural sustainability, and drive economic growth makes it indispensable in the journey from field to fork, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of human development.
KEYWORDS: Zea mays, Food security, Nutritional benefits, Agricultural sustainability, Industrial applications.