McDonald’s has introduced a Multi-Millet Bun to its menu in India as a healthier alternative for its burgers. The innovative multi-millet bun has been co-developed by McDonald’s India and the nation’s premier food research body: Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI) in Mysuru, which operates under the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR).
The Multi-Millet Bun is made with a blend of five millets: jowar, bajra, ragi, proso, and kodo. Customers can choose the millet bun for any burger by selecting it as an upgrade during their order. The newly introduced millet-bun is currently available in India, with plans for wider availability across all ordering channels.
Customers can now opt for the Multi-Millet Bun with any burger on the menu for a nominal additional charge of Rs 10.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr. Sanjeev Agrawal, Chairman, McDonald’s India (North & East), said, “McDonald’s has always been a strong believer in the Government’s initiatives and remains committed to creating meaningful collaborations that benefit Indian consumers. The multi-millet bun is a step in that direction, bringing together taste and nutrition while supporting local farmers. This initiative started in McDonald’s Mumbai since then we have been promoting this across our restaurants. We look forward for many such collaborations with Govt initiatives to continue to create meaningful differences in the Indian economy and for consumers.”
Videshi turns to Swadeshi: Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh
Union Minister of Science and Technology, Dr. Jitendra Singh lauded the initiative calling the new launch a “proud moment for Indian innovation” that successfully validates indigenous food technology on a global commercial platform.
“Videshi turns to Swadeshi as the popular international food chain McDonald’s serves India’s Millet Bun Burger, prepared using indigenous technology developed by the Mysore based #CSIR institute, the Central Food Technological Research Institute #CFTRI. A proud moment showcasing how Indian innovation and traditional nutrition are reshaping global food trends. And, a grand vindication for India’s Millet movement which had gained momentum with the UN declaring 2023 as the ‘International Year of Millets…’,” he wrote in an X post.
India’s millet movement
McDonald’s has stated that this initiative is part of its ongoing effort to explore nutritional alternatives and support India’s “Millet Movement”. India’s millet movement is a national and international campaign to revive the cultivation and consumption of millets, positioning them as a sustainable and nutritious alternative to water-intensive crops like rice.
Driven by the government, the movement promotes millets for their health benefits, environmental resilience, and ability to support smallholder farmers. It involves government policies, the promotion of value-added products, and awareness campaigns, culminating in the declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets.
Health benefits of millets
Millets offer numerous health benefits, including improved heart health, better blood sugar regulation, and support for weight management, all thanks to their high fibre and nutrient content. They are also a great gluten-free option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity and promote healthy digestion by aiding gut health and preventing constipation.
Millets are rich in fibre, antioxidants, and potassium, which can help lower bad cholesterol, regulate blood pressure, and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. With a low glycemic index, millets help stabilize blood sugar levels, making them a healthy choice for people with diabetes.
High in fibre and protein, millets help you feel full for longer, which can lead to reduced overall calorie intake and support weight loss efforts. The high dietary fibre content promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and supports a healthy gut microbiome. Millets are naturally gluten-free, providing a nutritious alternative for individuals with celiac disease or gluten intolerance.
Some millets, like finger millet, are excellent sources of calcium, which is crucial for maintaining strong bones and preventing osteoporosis. Millets contain antioxidants and other nutrients like zinc that help combat inflammation and support a healthy immune system.