Traditional foods are progressively being reconsidered within the context of gut health. This is because many of them naturally combine dietary fibre, polyphenols, bioactive compounds, resistant starch and growth of beneficial microorganisms in fermented foods. These components create a complex relationship between food, microbial metabolism and host physiology. As poor diet is the major factor for contributing to diseases, understanding multidirectional interrelationship between food and the gut microbiota is essential for public health viewpoint. This article explores how traditional foods influence the gut microbiome reminding us that healthier health may begin with healthier gut.

Efficient utilization of fibrous agricultural residues is essential for sustainable livestock production, particularly in smallholder production systems where high-quality feeds are limited or expensive. Crop residues generally have low nutritive value because of their low protein and energy concentrations, poor digestibility and lignification of plant cell walls. Various approaches, including physical, chemical and biological treatments, strategic supplementation, complete feed blocks and ration balancing, can improve their feeding value and nutrient utilization. Rumen-modifying strategies such as ionophores, organic acids, exogenous fibrolytic enzymes, direct-fed microbials and plant bioactive compounds have also been investigated for improving rumen function and reducing enteric methane production. This article reviews important nutritional and rumen-based approaches for improving fibrous-feed utilization while reducing methane emission intensity. An integrated approach combining feed treatment, strategic supplementation, ration balancing and appropriate rumen-modifying strategies can support sustainable livestock production.

Bamboo is one of nature?s most versatile and rapidly renewable resources, with immense potential to contribute to ecological security, rural livelihoods and sustainable development. Often referred to as ?green gold? and ?poor man?s timber,? bamboo has traditionally been used for housing, handicrafts, agricultural implements, fencing, furniture, food and numerous household products. Its importance, however, extends far beyond traditional uses. As a fast-growing member of the grass family, bamboo can provide renewable biomass within a relatively short period while its extensive rhizome and root system helps bind soil, reduce erosion and support soil and water conservation. Bamboo-based agroforestry systems offer opportunities for income diversification, food security, employment generation and restoration of degraded lands. Bamboo also contributes to climate-change mitigation through carbon storage and can provide renewable alternatives to conventional timber and other materials. In India, the rich diversity of bamboo and the traditional knowledge associated with its utilisation provide a strong foundation for developing a modern bamboo-based bioeconomy. World Bamboo Day provides an opportunity to recognise bamboo not simply as a traditional forest product, but as a resource linking agriculture, forestry, livelihoods, ecological restoration, climate resilience and innovation. The future of bamboo lies in combining traditional wisdom with scientific research, sustainable management, modern processing and value addition.