Wait, Did McDonald's Really Go Desi? Union Minister Backs The Surprise Millet Burger Revolution

Millets are enjoying a major revival in India, and the trend has gone far beyond rural kitchens. With strong encouragement from Prime Minister Narendra Modi, these ancient grains are now making their way into urban diets, ready-to-eat products and even global fast-food menus. McDonald’s India proved this shift last year when it introduced a millet burger bun , giving a modern twist to the country’s traditional grains.
Hero Image


Now, the innovation has received high praise from Union Minister of State for Science and Technology, Dr Jitendra Singh, who shared his appreciation on X. In his post, he celebrated how McDonald’s India had embraced the country’s millet movement by integrating bajra, ragi, jowar, proso and kodo into their burger buns.



Millets Meet Global Fast Food


Launched in September 2024, the Multi-Millet Bun allows customers to upgrade any McDonald’s burger with five nutrient-rich Indian millets making it a unique fusion of modern fast-food convenience and desi nutrition. This move brings millet into everyday eating, allowing Indian consumers to enjoy both flavour and health in one bite. As interest in healthy eating grows across cities, introducing millets into fast-food menus marks a significant step towards mainstreaming these sustainable grains.


A Nod to Indian Innovation


Dr Singh also highlighted that this multi-millet bun was created using indigenous food technology developed by CFTRI Mysuru. This innovation not only supports millet farmers and the Indian agriculture ecosystem but also demonstrates how Indian food science is shaping global food trends. By adopting native grains, McDonald’s India has become an example of how international brands can help promote Indian innovation and local crops.


Making Healthy Eating Mainstream


The Multi-Millet Bun reflects the idea that ancient grains can be both nutritious and delicious. With this launch, McDonald’s India is among the first international fast-food chains to integrate millets into its menu, helping spread awareness about their health benefits, sustainability advantages and culinary versatility. As India moves towards more mindful eating, this millet initiative positions fast food as a healthier, future-ready choice.

This fusion of desi grains with global flavours shows exactly how India’s traditional ingredients can thrive in modern food culture proving that millets are no longer just a trend, but a movement.