The increasing global population and the rise of health-conscious consumers have led to a growing demand for innovative foods and functional ingredients. Hairless canary seed (Phalaris canariensis L.), which has recently obtained regulatory food approval from Health Canada and the United States Food and Drug Administration (US-FDA), has the potential to meet these demands due to its unique nutrient profile and characteristics. Canary seed stands out among cereals and pseudo-cereals (gluten-free cereals) as it has the highest protein content and is gluten-free. Additionally, it contains significant amounts of tryptophan, an amino acid typically lacking in cereals. It is considered a true cereal grain that can be processed into flour, starch, and oil for various food and non-food applications. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the chemical composition, functional properties, and biological activities of canary seeds. It also explores the processing methods for incorporating these seeds into food and cosmetic products. Furthermore, suggestions for future research directions are presented to enhance the utilization of this plant. Overall, it is evident that Phalaris canariensis holds considerable potential as a sustainable crop that can be further developed.
Keywords: bioactive peptide; canary seed; functional foods; gluten-free; health benefits; starch.