Indian Journal of Agroforestry

Bamboos are large woody grass, belonging to the family Poaceae and sub-family Bambusoideae, much known for its contribution to the environment. But, the food perspective of bamboo shoots remains unexplored and also the literature on nutritional and medicinal potential of bamboo shoots is limited. This review article provides insight into the bamboo shoot as a substitute food source. Bamboos possess essential amino acids, selenium, antioxidant and mineral nutrients. The presence of cyanogenic glycoside in raw bamboo shoots and its effect on human health has implied for innovative processing techniques using systematic inputs for the elimination of toxic compounds without interrupting the nutrients. The article further discusses the potential responsibility of agroforestry in enhancing edible bamboo production and the productivity of various edible bamboos incorporated under agroforestry models, and precautions in handling bamboo shoots. Lastly, the article also reviewed the utilization of bamboo shoots for certain ailments and also regarding the opportunities for value addition along with future scenario for establishing efficient international marketing benefits by making bamboo shoot products available to much potential and eventual trade inside and outside the country, laterally with food security and nutrition.