World Pulses Day

World Pulses Day History

World Pulses Day seeks to commemorate the nutritional and environmental benefits of pulses. Pulses, including beans, peas, lentils and chickpeas, are a versatile food staple that contribute to sustainable agriculture and food security globally. They are high in protein, dietary fiber and contain essential nutrients, making them significant for human health. Moreover, they also play a role in improving soil fertility in agricultural fields through nitrogen fixation, which in turn reduces greenhouse gas emissions.

World Pulses Day has its roots in the International Year of Pulses in 2016, established by the UN to increase public awareness of the benefits of pulses. In America, the importance of pulses should not be undermined. Pulses are an integral part of American agriculture, with the country being one of the largest producers of pulses worldwide. Furthermore, the inclusion of pulses in the American diet can contribute to mitigating prevalent health issues such as obesity and heart disease, due to their high-protein and low-fat content.

In the United States, World Pulses Day is typically observed through various educational and promotional events highlighting the importance of pulses. From farm tours to cooking demonstrations, the benefits of pulses are displayed to the public to encourage their consumption and cultivation. World Pulses Day is observed in America on February 10th each year, encouraging recognition of the important role pulses play in sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and food security.

Facts about World Pulses Day

• The Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN recognizes 11 different types of pulses: dry beans, dry broad beans, dry peas, chickpeas, cow peas, pigeon peas, lentils, Bambara beans, vetches, lupins, and pulses nes (not elsewhere specified).
• According to pulses.org, the first evidence of pulses dates back 11,000 years ago to the Fertile Crescent. This is a region in the Middle East that was home to early human civilizations.
• Pulses with the most protein per 1/2 cup are:
  1) Great Norther Beans - 9.7 grams
  2) Lentils - 9 grams
  3) Split Peas - 8.2 grams
  4) Black Beans - 7.6 grams
• Pulses are considered a superfood. They have zero cholesterol, low fat, and they are a great source of protein and fiber. According to pulses.org, pulses are also one of the most cost-effective proteins. It is estimated that one serving costs just $0.10.

In the News and Trending in the US for World Pulses Day

Top things to do in the US for World Pulses Day

• Learn more about pulses and their benefits with an educational video by the FAO.
• Learn about the Global Pulse Confederation, a not for profit hoping to create an inclusive global pulse organization.
• Discover tasty pulse recipes.

World Pulses Day references