Amaranth in animal nutrition

Abstract

Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.) is a nutritious rich pseudo-cereal crop grown as a grain and leafy vegetable. The grain amaranth can be used for human consumption and silage or forage for many animals. Grain amaranth is also included in the category of superfood based on all essential nutrients that are required for living beings. The amaranth crop is widely cultivated in Central America, Asia, and African regions. Amaranth as a leafy vegetable has high usage as a salad for humans and good quality silage for animals. As compared to other forages, it plays a good role in the growth and productivity of animals as it contains several compounds in it that help the animal to grow better. This review aims to highlight the nutritional quality of amaranth for the animals and to enhance the knowledge of these plants and their uses in animal nutrition as an alternative source of protein, fiber, and other essential amino acids.