ARF stands for “Amylase Rich Food”. It is simply a scientific name of germinated cereal flour which is rich in the enzyme alpha-amylase. ARF powder is made up from cereals & pulses that contain enzymes (e.g. wheat, rice, green gram, cowpea, finger millet, sorghum, barley).
Including Amylase Rich Food (ARF powder) to infant’s food is a great source to enhance the nutritional value of their food. ARF powder contains the enzyme alpha-amylase which has an ability to break down carbs. This feature makes the food low in viscosity and high in energy content and digestible.
How to make ARF Powder at home?
- Select whole grain, rinse and clean the same. (choose one cereal & one pulse)
- Soak in water overnight and drain the excess water the next day.
- Take the soaked grains, spread evenly on a muslin cloth & leave it for 24 to 48 hours for germination.
- Once proper sprouting is there, dry it under the sunlight or inside.
- Roast the dry sprouted mixture on a low flame for 5 - 7 min & allow it to cool down. (separate sprouts) And grind it to a fine powder.
- Store it in an airtight container and consume it in a week time to ensure for its freshness.
ARF powder is easy, hygienic and homemade and an inexpensive source of nutrition. Process of making ARF increases the activity of the enzyme alpha-amylase, which makes food easily digestible. Combination of cereal and pulse in ARF powder improves protein source for babies. Germinating ingredients increases nutrients like vitamin C and the B complex. Separation of sprouts removes harmful chemicals from the food.
Adding one to two teaspoon ARF powder to your weaning food preparation (porridge/sheera/khichdi etc) helps to enhance the nutritional value of the food. You can introduce ARF powder between 8 to 10 months and it can also be used in regular home food for your toddlers and kids.
Note: Consult your pediatrician before introducing your baby.