Question

High starch and protein is a variety of
(A) Rice
(B) Maize
(C) Bajra
(D) Ragi
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. (A) only.
• B. (B) only.
• C. (A) and (B) only.
• D. (A), (B) and (D) only.

Hint:

Quality Protein Maize (QPM) varieties like Shaktiman-1 and HQPM-1 are classic examples of high-starch and high-quality protein cultivars.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Cereals and millets are primary sources of carbohydrates (starch) and proteins for human nutrition and industrial applications.
Among these, specific crops have been extensively bred for dual high-starch and high-protein content, particularly for industrial starch extraction and animal feed.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Maize (Zea mays) is globally recognized as a premier crop containing exceptionally high levels of starch (approximately \(70\text{--}75\%\)) and a significant protein content (typically \(9\text{--}11\%\)).
Moreover, specific varieties of maize, known as Quality Protein Maize (QPM), have been bred to possess twice the amounts of essential amino acids (lysine and tryptophan) compared to normal maize, while maintaining high starch levels.
Let us compare this with other crops:
1. Rice: High in starch (\(75\text{--}80\%\)) but contains relatively low protein (\(6\text{--}7\%\)).
2. Bajra (Pearl Millet): Rich in protein (\(11\text{--}12\%\)) and minerals, but has lower starch content compared to maize.
3. Ragi (Finger Millet): Highly rich in calcium and dietary fiber, but contains lower protein levels (\(6\text{--}7\%\)).
Due to its unique grain composition, Maize is highly valued for both its premium starch yields and protein quality.

Step 3: Final Answer:
Thus, high starch and protein is a characteristic variety of Maize only.