5 things to do in Meghalaya - the abode of clouds

Grain

According to the Russian Grain Union, from July to December, the Russian Federation achieved nearly 60% of its annual grain export potential and may approach February 15 with a volume below the established export quota, which remains valid from February 15 to June 30, 2024
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The agricultural sector plays an important role in the Turkish economy and is developing dynamically: agricultural input in GDP more than doubled from $24 billion to $58 billion in 2002-2022. 
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The experts of the Interagro group analyzed the grain market, as well as the volume of flour production for 9 months. Main trends: rising prices for grain transportation forces processors to load capacities that were previously used only by half
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South Africa belongs to the number of countries with insufficiently favorable conditions for agriculture, which is mainly due to the arid and hot climate, as well as the oversaturation of soils with salts.
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The share of agriculture in the Serbian economy is gradually decreasing due to the active development of the service sector and industry.
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Indonesia's agricultural sector accounted for 12.4% of GDP and 29.0% of the employed population in 2022. The favorable climate, as well as extensive fertile lands allow the country to maintain the status of a net exporter of agricultural products.
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Agriculture in DR Congo accounts for about 17.4% of GDP and 55.3% of the employed population. Although the majority of the country's population is employed in the agricultural sector, production is based on low-efficiency subsistence farming
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In 2022, imports of agricultural products to Hong Kong amounted to 23.4 billion US dollars, a decrease of 13.6% (-3.7 billion US dollars) compared to 2021. The volume of imports for 2018-2022 decreased annually by an average of 5.5%.
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Agriculture is a key sector of Benin's economy, accounting for 26.9% of the country's GDP. However, most of the production is accounted for by subsistence farming, and only a small part of the products produced is represented on the domestic market.
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The agricultural sector accounts for 24.1% of Uganda's GDP and 62.9% of the employed population. This is the main field of activity for the majority of the country's residents, however, the employment-to-GDP ratio demonstrates insufficient efficiency of agricultural production
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Grains are small, hard, dry seeds that are harvested for food, coming from a variety of cereal grasses. They are a staple in diets worldwide due to their versatility, nutritional value, and the ability to be stored for long periods. Grains are broadly categorized into whole grains and refined grains.

Types of Grains:

Whole Grains: These contain all three parts of the grain kernel – the bran, germ, and endosperm. Examples include whole wheat, brown rice, oats, barley, quinoa, and millet.
Refined Grains: These have been milled, a process that removes the bran and germ. This gives them a finer texture and extends their shelf life but also removes dietary fiber, iron, and many B vitamins. Examples include white rice and white flour.
Ancient Grains: These are grains that have been largely unchanged over the last several hundred years. Examples include amaranth, quinoa, and spelt.

Nutritional Value:

Grains are an important source of various nutrients:

Carbohydrates: A major source of energy.
Fiber: Particularly in whole grains, aiding in digestion and offering other health benefits.
Proteins: Essential for body repair and growth.
Vitamins: Especially B vitamins, which play various roles in the body.
Minerals: Such as iron, selenium, and magnesium.

Using Grains in the Diet:

Bread and Cereals: Commonly consumed in the form of bread, pasta, and breakfast cereals.
Rice Dishes: A staple in many cultures, used in dishes like risotto, pilaf, sushi, and paella.
Porridge and Oatmeal: Made from oats or other grains, often eaten for breakfast.
Snacks: Granola bars, popcorn (a type of corn), and crackers.
Side Dishes: Quinoa, barley, or farro can be used as nutritious side dishes.
Soups and Stews: Barley, rice, or quinoa can be added to soups and stews for extra heartiness.
Baking: Whole grain flours are used in baking various bread, cakes, and cookies.
Salads: Grains like quinoa or farro can be added to salads for extra texture and nutrition.
Beverages: Some grains, like barley, are used in the fermentation process to produce beer.

Health Benefits:

Heart Health: Whole grains have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease.
Weight Management: High fiber content can help in feeling fuller and thus aid in weight control.
Digestive Health: Fiber supports healthy digestion and regularity.
Reduced Risk of Chronic Diseases: Regular consumption of whole grains has been associated with a lower risk of type 2 diabetes and certain cancers.

Sustainability:

Grains are also significant from an environmental standpoint. They are typically more sustainable to produce than animal-based foods, requiring less water and land, and generating fewer greenhouse gases.

In Summary:

Grains are a fundamental component of the human diet, providing essential nutrients and energy. Incorporating a variety of whole grains into your diet can offer numerous health benefits, contribute to a balanced diet, and can be a part of environmentally sustainable eating practices.