General Information

• Ancient Crop: Fonio is one of the oldest cultivated grain crops in West Africa, harvested for over 5,000 years in more than 16 countries.
• Women-Led Cultivation: Fonio is mainly grown, harvested, and processed by women, playing a crucial role in its cultivation process.
• Small Grain Size: Each grain of fonio is only a few millimeters long, making the removal of the shell a very time and labor-intensive process.
• Cooking Expansion: When cooked, fonio expands significantly, requiring only fifty grams per person for one meal.

Nutritional Benefits

• Gluten-Free: Fonio is gluten-free, making it an excellent option for people with allergies and gluten intolerance.
• Rich in Amino Acids: Fonio is particularly high in methionine and cysteine, amino acids that are often lacking in other grains.
• High in Fiber: This grain is a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain healthy blood sugar levels.
• Low Glycemic Index: Fonio has a low glycemic index, making it a suitable food for diabetics.
• Mineral-Rich: Fonio is rich in essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc, which are crucial for maintaining healthy body functions.
• Vitamins: It contains vitamins B1 (thiamine) and B3 (niacin), important for energy production and overall health.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Its strong fibers and low-fat percentage make fonio an exceptionally healthy option. It is particularly suitable for pregnant women and young children due to its high methionine content. Additionally, diabetics benefit from incorporating fonio into their diet.

Sustainability and Resilience

• Drought Resistant: Fonio is resistant to drought and poor nutrient soil, thriving in harsh conditions.
• Fast Growing: Fonio is one of the fastest growing crops in the world, with the ability to be harvested just 67 to 127 days after sowing.
• Rescue Crop: Often used as a rescue remedy when major crops fail due to irregular climate patterns.