Chemical composition of the most important pseudocereals

Abstract

Pseudocereals are plants that are traditionally produced in some parts of the world. In underdeveloped regions of the world, they are used in human nutrition as the most important source of energy, protein, vitamins and minerals. In developed parts of the world, regardless of their favorable chemical composition, pseudocereals have been practically forgotten and are rarely grown. At the same time as the concern for human health has increased, interest among certain categories of people in consuming products containing quinoa, buckwheat, chia or amaranth seeds or flour is growing. This chapter provides an overview of the chemical composition of the most important pseudocereals and a presentation of their potential contribution to improve human health.