Adlai: What it is and why it's good for you?

Adlai: A Healthier and Sustainable Alternative to Rice

In recent years, people have become more conscious of what they eat. Health- and eco-conscious consumers, in particular, are demanding healthier foods and responsible eating practices. One of the foods that have gained popularity among these consumers is adlai. But what exactly is adlai, and why should you care?

Adlai, also known as “Job’s tears” or “Chinese pearl barley,” belongs to the grass family and has tear-shaped grains similar to barley. Adlai's wild variety has pearly white, hard grains that can be made into prayer beads or rosaries. The cultivated variety of adlai has softer grains and tastes similar to rice but with a slightly nutty flavor. It takes longer to cook and is chewier than rice, but it is loaded with more nutrients.

Adlai is grown in various parts of the Philippines, such as Zamboanga, Davao, Bukidnon, Sagada, and the Mountain Province. It is also cultivated in some parts of Isabela and Bicol.

Why is adlai a great alternative to rice? Let's take a closer look.

Adlai is Nutrient-Dense
Adlai is a healthier, diabetic-friendly alternative to rice due to its high nutritional content. A 100-gram serving of adlai yields 356 kcal—the highest energy content compared to white rice, brown rice, and white corn grits. It is packed with protein, calcium, phosphorus, iron, niacin, thiamine, and riboflavin. Additionally, it has high dietary fiber content, making it good for the gut.

Adlai May Have Healing Properties
Adlai is believed to have healing benefits, just like many crops that are loaded with nutrients. Adlai has a low glycemic index rating of 28, which is much lower than white rice's rating of 73. Foods with a low GI value (55 or less) like adlai are more slowly digested, absorbed, and metabolized. This makes adlai a better choice for those who suffer from diabetes or high blood sugar. Studies also indicate that adlai has anti-allergic, anti-mutagenic, and hypolipemic properties and exhibits anti-cancer activity. Moreover, adlai is gluten-free, making it ideal for people with gluten sensitivity.

Adlai is an Ark of Taste Heritage Food
Adlai is an ancient grain that has only recently been rediscovered. It is among the Ark of Taste endangered heritage foods that are sustainably produced, unique in taste, and belong to specific cultures. The Ark of Taste was launched to preserve at-risk foods that are sustainably produced, unique in taste, and belong to specific cultures. As of writing, the Philippines has 65 products on the Ark of Taste list. Adlai fits in this category because of its distinct taste, small-scale production, and the way it is used by local indigenous communities. Choosing to buy and consume adlai helps save farmers, local communities, and real food that can very well save us from hunger.

Adlai is Good for Filipino Farmers

Adlai can survive under any type of climate condition in tropical countries. It is ideal for inter-cropping with other plants and requires minimal irrigation as it can survive in slope areas and can benefit from rainfall. According to the Subanens of Zamboanga, adlai also requires minimal fertilizer. They do not use chemical fertilizers either, relying on organic matter like dried leaves instead. Being a relatively low-maintenance crop makes adlai a good livelihood source for farmers particularly in Mindanao and Cordillera.

In conclusion, adlai is a versatile and sustainable crop that has the potential to benefit Filipino farmers and promote food security in the country. With its ability to thrive under different weather conditions and minimal maintenance requirements, adlai is an excellent alternative to traditional crops like rice. By choosing to cultivate adlai, farmers can also contribute to the promotion of sustainable agriculture and support the growing demand for healthier food options.

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