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Review
. 2024 Aug 30;13(17):2421.
doi: 10.3390/plants13172421.

Unraveling the Hidden Potential of Barley (Hordeum vulgare): An Important Review

Avneet Kaur  1 , Sukhvinder Singh Purewal  2 , Yuthana Phimolsiripol  3 , Sneh Punia Bangar  4
Affiliations
Review

Unraveling the Hidden Potential of Barley (Hordeum vulgare): An Important Review

Avneet Kaur et al. Plants (Basel). .

Abstract

Barley (Hordeum vulgare) is a winter crop well known for its small-seeded grains and self-pollinating characteristics. The flour derived from barley grains plays a crucial role in numerous processed food items, contributing to their taste and nutritional value. Barley consists of complex carbohydrates (80%), proteins (11.5-14.2%), lipids (4.7-6.8%), β-glucans (3.7-7.7%), and ash (1.8-2.4%). Beyond its other nutrients, barley boasts a good reservoir of phenolic compounds (1.2-2.9 mg/g GAE). This abundance of beneficial compounds positions barley as an attractive industrial substrate. In this review, the nutritional composition and bioactive profile of barley are discussed in a systemic manner, emphasizing its potential in the development of innovative barley-based products that promote health and well-being. By incorporating barley into various food formulations, industries can not only boost nutritional content but also offer consumers a wide range of health benefits. In conclusion, barley's diverse applications in food and health highlight its essential role in promoting healthier living.

Keywords: barley; bioactive profile; food; nutritional composition.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare no conflicts of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Worldwide top barley producers during 2022 [19].
Figure 2
Figure 2
Different barley-based food products.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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