FINGER MILLET

INTRODUCTION
Finger millet, Eleusine coracana, herbaceous annual cereal crop robust, tufted, self-pollinating and tillering which probably evolved
from it is wild relative, it is tetraploid in nature belonging in Poaceae family, the height of a mature plant ranges from 30-150 cm in the
cool, high-altitude regions of Africa and Asia, where it is grown for its seeds which may be white, light brown, or dark brown, are
consumed in a variety of forms including as unleavened bread made from milled flour. Finger millet originated in Ethiopia and Uganda
where it was domesticated 5000 years ago. Finger millet grows best in an environment with medium rainfall, about 750-900mm, an
annual temperature ranges of 15- 28°C and in a fertile, well-draining sandy loam soil with a pH between 5-8.

Globally India, Nigeria and China are the largest producers of millets in the world, accounting for more than 55% of the global
production.
 
 USES OF FINGER MILLET

• Finger millet can be ground into flour which is used in

porridge, flat bread, beer making it is straws are used
as animal fodder. Finger millet provides proteins, fiber
vitamins, minerals such as calcium which help in bone
strengthening.
HARVESTING OF FINGER MILLET
Harvesting tools used includes knife, sickle or combine harvester in
large scale.
Maturity indices includes drying of the leaf foliage and drying of the
finger millet grains and having black spot.
Harvesting procedure.
Harvesting of finger millet includes cut the below the panicle and the
whole plant can be uprooted.
 TRANSPORT AND THRESHING

•Transportation can be done into two ways which are

a)From the field to the farm drying area.
• where by soon after harvest for the farmer that prefer to dry their millet in the farmer area, the simple material
like bags used to carrying and head transfer from the farm to field dry area according to the distance.
a)Transport from the farm to the home.
•This for the farmer that need to drying their product at home near permanent storage, and various means of
transport and carrying material are used to transport the finger millet to home such as tractors, track for larger
scale and simple equipment such as animal drawn carts, and sometimes they used to loll in the pieces of cloth
and carrying the donkey to home area.
•THRESHING.
•Refer to the remover of grain from the plants plant part, for the finger millet the threshing can be done through
the various methods includes: -
THRESHING….

a) Traditional method
• Whereby done manually using hand beating with stick in an object (bag),
which is common method to the many small holder farmers
a) Modern methods
• by using simple machine-like thresher which is simple machine with
either powered sources or by using oil such as diesel or petrol.
• maintain the high quality of the harvested grains, it should be clean
threshed and at the dry area.
 

DRYING MILLET GRAIN.

1.ON-FARM DRYING

• On-farm drying involves bundling the plant panicles and drying them on the ground (avoid direct contact with the soil) or a
raised platform up to two weeks. It is done before threshing of the grains from the panicles or after threshing when the grains
are laid on the mat or plastic sheet.

•Advantages;

This method is cheap so it is suitable even to small- and medium-scale farmers with small land holdings and limited resources.

• Disadvantages

Uneven and uncontrolled drying of grains

higher risk of infestation by pests or microorganisms that result into field losses

dependence on unpredictable weather conditions.

•MECHANICAL DRYING.
•There are three types of mechanical drying systems that includes;
a)unheated drying systems
•Unheated drying systems are the simplest and most economical, using air currents to circulate
through a bed of grain and lift off moisture through desorption.
•Disadvantage; They are not suitable during rainy seasons with high atmospheric humidity especially
higher than 75%

b) air drying systems with supplementary heat generation

MECHANICAL DRYING. ….

• Supplementary heating systems, both direct and indirect, utilize

heaters or electric burners to generate heat. Direct-type systems
directly expose the grain to heated air, while indirect-type systems use
a heat exchanger to raise the grain's temperature.

c). heated drying systems.

 CLEANING OF FINGER MILLET.

• Cleaning is an essential step in the processing of millets, as it involves

the removal of various contaminants to ensure that the final product is
free from impurities and safe for consumption. The contaminants that
need to be removed from millets include; sand, small stones, leaves,
shriveled seeds, off-type seeds, broken seeds, glumes, sticks, chaff,
parts of stems, insects, animal hair, animal excreta, and metal pieces

• METHODS OF CLEANING FINGER MILLET.

1.Traditional methods.
METHODS OF CLEANING FINGER MILLET…..

(a)Winnowing:

• This method involves placing a certain amount of threshed millet grains on a flat woven basket known as
"ungo" and using up and down strokes to separate the contaminants. The basket is jerked up and down,
causing the grains to be thrown up in the air and then fall back onto the basket. The lighter contaminants such
as sand and chaff are separated and removed from the front of the basket either by jerky motion or by hand.
Sometimes, blowing air through the mouth is used to remove light contaminants.

• Disadvantage; Winnowing is a laborious and time-consuming process, with approximately 1 hour required to
clean 1 bag of 100 kg of millet grains.
METHODS OF CLEANING FINGER MILLET …..
b.) Aspiration:

• This traditional cleaning process takes advantage of the density difference between the good millet grains and
contaminants. It is most effective when there is a slight wind, which helps blow away the lighter contaminants.
Around 10 kg of threshed millet grains are poured from above the head into a tin or basket, allowing them to
fall onto a surface such as a carpet or canvas on the ground. The wind blows off the chaff, leaving behind a
heap of clean grains.

• Advantages; Aspiration is faster than winnowing, and it is possible to clean 4 or 5 bags of millet grains in 1
hour using this method.

• Disadvantage; It is not efficient in removing heavy contaminants such as sand, stones, and metal pieces.
 METHODS OF CLEANING FINGER MILLET…..

1. MODERN TECHNIQUES FOR FINGER MILLET CLEANING.

• In large-scale millet processing, traditional cleaning methods like winnowing and aspiration may not be
feasible due to the volume of millet grains involved. Instead, mechanized cleaning techniques are commonly
employed to clean millets efficiently and on a larger scale. Some common methods used for large-scale
cleaning of
METHODS OF CLEANING FINGER MILLET…..

No. Methods Description

1 Air screen cleaners It separates seed and impurities basing on size differences

2 Gravity Separators Gravity separators, also known as gravity table. These machines utilize the principle of specific gravity to separate
the millet grains from contaminants.

3 Magnetic Separators Machine used to remove metal contaminants like iron or steel particles
 STORAGE OF FINGER MILLET

• Finger millet, also known as a nutritious cereal grain that can be stored for extended periods if proper storage
conditions are maintained.

• Some guidelines for storing finger millet:

 Cleaning: Before storing finger millet, ensure that it is clean and free from impurities such as stones, dirt, or
insects. Thoroughly inspect the grains and remove any damaged or discolored ones.

 Drying: Properly dry the finger millet before storage to prevent moisture-related issues. Spread the grains in a
thin layer on a clean, dry surface, and allow them to air dry in a well-ventilated area. Ensure that the grains
are completely dry before moving to the next step
STORAGE OF FINGER MILLET
……
 Packaging: Use clean, airtight containers for storing finger millet. Plastic or glass containers with tight-fitting lids are suitable options.
Alternatively, you can use food-grade plastic bags or metal containers with airtight seals. Make sure the containers are clean and dry before
use.

 Protection from moisture: Moisture is the primary enemy when it comes to grain storage. Store finger millet in a cool, dry place to prevent
moisture absorption. Avoid storing it in areas prone to humidity, such as near sinks or in damp basements. Moisture can lead to mold growth
or spoilage of the grains.

 Protection from pests: Protect finger millet from pests like insects and rodents. Before storing, consider treating the grains with safe and
approved insecticides or fumigants to prevent infestation. Additionally, you can place bay leaves, neem leaves, or dried chilies in the storage
containers to repel pests naturally.

 Regular inspection: Periodically check the stored finger millet for signs of spoilage, insects, or moisture buildup. If you notice any issues,
take appropriate actions, such as removing affected grains or improving storage conditions.

 
 PACKAGING OF FINGER MILLET

 Airtight containers: glass, or metal containers with tight-fitting lids are commonly used for packaging finger millet. These
containers create a seal that helps keep out moisture and pests. Ensure that the containers are clean and dry before filling them
with finger millet.

 Grain-grade plastic bags: Strong and thick plastic bags made of food-grade material used for packaging finger millet. Choose bags
that are specifically designed for food storage and have airtight seals. Before filling the bags, make sure they are clean and dry.

 Natural fiber bags, such as jute or cloth bags, can also be used for packaging finger millet. These bags allow some airflow, which
can be beneficial for preventing moisture buildup. However, they may not provide an airtight seal, so it's essential to store the
bags in a dry environment and check them regularly for any signs of moisture or pests.

 Sealed pouches: Vacuum-sealed or heat-sealed pouches are effective for packaging finger millet. These pouches create a tight
seal, preventing moisture and pests from entering. Vacuum-sealed pouches also help preserve the freshness and nutritional value
of the grains.
MAJOR CAUSES OF POST-HARVEST LOSS OF FINGER MILLET AND THEIR MANAGEMENT

•. Losses during transportation that occur from spillage and seepage from sacks and contamination with sand or other foreign matter, affecting quality.

•Management of losses during transportation.

•Achieved through right packaging and handling to minimize losses and maintain hygiene in carriages, use air-tight, cool, and dry carriers.

2. Losses during threshing that occurs from pounding on hard surface resulting to grain breakage or pounding on bare ground result into mixing of produce and grit.
•Management of losses during transportation.

•a) Achieved through use of a thresher if available but can also winnow by pounding on clean surface like canvas.

•b) Avoid pounding on hard surface to avoid grain breakage; avoid pounding on bare ground to avoid grit.

•3. Losses during winnowing that can occur when winnowing is done on the bare surface resulting the contamination of the produce by the sand.

•Management of losses during winnowing

•This is achievable through use of thresher if available or wind and rubbing on clean surface like canvas large enough to hold all grain avoid contamination by e.g. sand.

•4. Losses during storage that is the result of poor storage facilities and conditions within the storage facilities that may result into infestation of pest such as insect pests and
molds.
2.Storage insect pests that affects Finger millet in storage
conditions.
•a) Indian meal moth- Plodia interpunctella.

•Order: Lepidoptera

•Family: Pyralidae.
•  

•
Treatment/control
•Fumigation with methyl bromide @ 32 g/m3 for 4 hours followed by seed treatment with chlorpyriphos at 3 g kg-1 seed.

•b) Larger grain borer- Prostephanus truncates.

•Order: Coleoptera

•Family: Bostrichidae.

•It is a serious pest of Finger millet. The borer damages grains leading to significant weight loss (5-20%).

•Symptoms of infestation.

•Adults frequently attack stored seed with intact sheaths by boring into the base of seed. Adults bore into the grains, making neat round holes, and as they tunnel from grain to grain they generate large quantities of grain dust. Adult females lay eggs in chambers bored at right angles to the main tunnels.

•Detection/indexing methods

•Pre-export field inspection and dry seed examination using magnifying lens.

•Treatment/control

• 

• 

• 
•The Indian Meal Moth is a prevalent pest that feeds on grains and can infest various food products especially processed food. Infestations
of the Indian Meal Moth, scientifically known as Plodia interpunctella, can result in direct loss of products and lead to indirect economic
expenses, including costs associated with pest control and quality deterioration.

•Symptoms of infestation.

•Plodia interpunctella is an external feeder. The larvae continuously spin a silken web both inside and on top of the grain surface, and feed
within the web. The webbing contains larval excreta (frass) and exuvia (cast skins), and gives an unpleasant odor to the infested
commodity. The infested commodity is sometimes covered on the surface with a thick mat of silken webbing.

•Detection/indexing methods

•The main approach for detecting the Indian Meal Moth is by using traps that utilize pheromones to attract and capture male moths.

•One commonly used pheromone, known as (Z,E)-9,12-tetradecadienyl acetate 'ZETA,' has been commercially available for quite some
time and has been extensively studied for its effectiveness in attracting male moths
• c) Red flour beetle- Tribolium castaneum

• Order: Coleoptera

• Family: Tenebrionidae
•Damage symptoms.

•The presence of adult beetles in flour and granular food products can be easily detected by observing the tunnels they create as
they move through the material.. In severe infestations, the affected products may exhibit a grayish-yellow color, develop mold,
and emit a strong odor. Additionally, the presence of adult beetles on the surface of the grains can also indicate an infestation.

•Detection/indexing methods

•a) X-ray radiography is used for suspected samples because it offers a non-destruction of the seed.

•b) Dry seed examination using magnifying lens to separate the infested seed.

•Management control

•Fumigation of the samples with methyl bromide by 32 gm/m3 for 4 hours followed by treatment with chlorpyriphos 3g kg-1 seed
Instect pest …
• 4. Molds.

• A common kind of a mold that is of importance is Aspergillus flavus that produces toxic compound known as
the Aflatoxin and incase of Finger millet the common kind of Aflatoxin is Aflatoxin B1. These fungi can
contaminate Finger millet. The infestation is favoured mainly by storage conditions include high humidity,
poor storage practices, insect damage, and improper drying.

• Consuming finger millet contaminated with aflatoxins can pose serious health risks. Aflatoxins are known to
be carcinogenic and can have adverse effects on the liver, leading to liver damage and potentially liver
cancer. Ingesting high levels of aflatoxins over an extended period may also result in other health issues, such
as immune system suppression and growth impairment in children.
Instect pest ..
•Management of Molds.

a)Regular monitoring and inspection: Monitor stored commodities regularly for signs of mold growth. Promptly identify and isolate any contaminated or mold-infested
batches to prevent further spread.
b)Ensure proper ventilation to prevent moisture buildup and reduce humidity levels in the storage facility.
c)Maintain cleanliness because keeping the storage facility clean and free from dirt, debris, and organic matter that can promote mold growth. Regularly sweep and
remove any spilled grains or seeds that can provide nutrients for mold.
d)Monitor humidity levels as mold growth can be limited by maintaining humidity below 70% and control temperature by maintaining a cool temperature within the
storage facility can help reduce mold growth..
e)Inspect and repair infrastructure for any leaks, cracks, or openings that can allow moisture to enter. Repair any structural issues promptly to prevent moisture infiltration.
f)Use moisture-absorbing materials like silica gel or desiccants within the storage facility to help absorb excess moisture and maintain dry conditions.
g)Implement proper stacking and spacing that allows for proper airflow between bags or containers. This helps prevent moisture pockets and promotes drying.
h)Utilize fungicides or mold inhibitors: Consider using approved fungicides or mold inhibitors specifically designed for the type of grains or seeds being stored.
• 5. Birds.

• Birds can indeed be a common pest in finger millet stores, as they are attracted to the grains and seeds. They
may enter storage facilities through openings or gaps, causing damage and contamination to the stored finger
millet.
Instect pest….
• House sparrow and Pigeons; Example of birds that can enter in the storage facility and feed on grains

• Management of birds.

a)Facility inspection and sealing: Regularly inspect the storage facility for any openings or gaps that birds can use to enter. Seal
these openings effectively using nets, screens, or other appropriate materials.

b)Netting: Install bird netting or wire mesh around the storage area to create a physical barrier that prevents birds from entering.

c)Bird repellents: Utilize bird repellent techniques such as reflective devices, scarecrows, or noise-emitting devices to deter birds
from approaching the storage facility. These visual and auditory deterrents can make the environment less attractive to birds.

d)Scare tactics: Employ scare tactics such as scare craw, or reflective tape to create a hostile environment for birds.

e)Sound devices: Use sound-emitting devices that produce distress calls or predator sounds to discourage birds from entering the
storage area. These devices can create an environment that birds perceive as unsafe.
• 6. Rodents
• Rodents constitute a large group of mammals, and are small to medium sized animals. Many rodent species
are very fertile and breed the whole year round. Serious outbreaks are often observed periodically that result
in heavy damage to various crops and stored products. Example of rats species found to affect Finger millet
in the storage facilities includes; Multimammate Rat (Mastomys natalensis) House Mouse (Mus musculus).
 • Management of Rodents

a) Exclusion; Openings more than one centimeter in width should not be left in stores. The floor and exterior of walls should be made of
concrete. Screens may be provided around all openings. Doors and windows should be tight fitting. The surroundings should be kept clean

b) Traps; Trapping is a preferred method of rat and mice control. Many types of traps are in use in different parts of the world. The most
popular traps are wooden/steel breakback or guillotine traps, steel jaw traps, cage traps, and automatic traps. It is important to keep traps in
good working condition in places generally frequented by rats and mice.

c) Poisoned baits; Control through poisoned baits is the routine operation in stores and fields. Zinc phosphide, barium carbonate and
insecticides (malathion, parathion, etc.) are generally used for rodent control. Cereal grains, bread, and flour pellets are generally used as a
carrier. Addition of vegetable oils and molasses increases the attractiveness of the baits. Pre-baiting with unpoisoned baits for 2-3 days in
areas frequently visited by the rats may be done to remove the fear and suspicion to new objects, followed by poisoned baits for 3-4 days.

d) Fumigation; Many rats and mice hide in burrows and can be killed by poisonous gases.' Calcium cyanide, sulfur dioxide, methyl bromide,
carbon monoxide, aluminium phosphide are generally used to fumigate the burrows of rats and mice. Redenticide or some insecticide dusts
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