Amaranthus spp.: A multifunctional crop at the nexus of nutrition, health, and sustainable innovation

Amaranth (Amaranthus spp.), an ancient Mesoamerican crop, is gaining renewed attention for its exceptional nutritional and agronomic attributes. As both a pseudocereal and a leafy vegetable, amaranth offers high-quality protein, micronutrients, and a unique spectrum of bioactive compounds, including bioactive peptides, polyphenols, carotenoids, squalene, polysaccharides, and dietary fiber, with demonstrated antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hypolipidemic properties. This critical review explores the state of the science surrounding the crop's cultivation, climate resilience, and functional composition, highlighting its potential to prevent or mitigate components of metabolic syndrome. Particular emphasis is placed on emerging postharvest technologies that enhance bioactive compound stability, and the diverse food formats incorporating amaranth for functional health benefits. Moreover, we present a forward-looking framework for innovation, including gene editing, personalized nutrition, and circular bioeconomy applications, outlining how amaranth can evolve into a flagship crop for climate-smart agriculture and nutraceutical development. Bridging traditional knowledge with next-generation biotechnology, this review defines a multi-disciplinary research agenda to unlock amaranth's role in future food systems. © 2025 The Authors