World Pulses Day

World Pulses Day History

World Pulses Day serves as a global celebration of the nutritional and environmental benefits that pulses offer. Recognising the vital role these protein-rich legumes play in promoting sustainable agriculture and addressing important issues such as food security, nutrition and climate change, the United Nations (UN) designated 2019 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP). This initiative aimed to champion the critical role of pulses in achieving the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by increasing public awareness, research and investment in the pulse industry.

The history of World Pulses Day dates back to 2019 when it was established following the successful implementation of IYP. Acknowledging the success of IYP and the growing global interest in pulses, the UN General Assembly unanimously adopted a resolution declaring February 10th as World Pulses Day - a day to advocate for the continued significance and consumption of pulses around the world. Since its inception, World Pulses Day has seen an outpouring of support from governments, farmers, researchers and consumers alike, working collaboratively to ensure pulses become a staple part of diets on a global scale.

Commemorated annually on February 10th, World Pulses Day provides an opportunity for the international community to celebrate the importance of pulses in ensuring a sustainable and healthy future.

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 highly sustainable and climate-resilient crops. They require relatively low amounts of water compared to other protein sources and can grow on marginal land. They also help increase soil fertility by fixing nitrogen, making them a crucial element in crop rotation practices in the UK.
• The pulse industry plays a crucial role in the UK's agricultural sector, providing income and employment opportunities for farmers, processors, and retailers.

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

Top things to do in the UK 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.
• Cook some Pulse-rich dishes: The UK has a diverse food scene, so try some dishes like dal, bean salads, chickpea stews, etc.