World Pulses Day is celebrated on February 10th each year. It’s an international day that recognises the importance of pulses, which are the edible seeds of legumes.

What are pulses?

Pulses, also known as legumes, are the edible seeds of leguminous plants cultivated for food. Dried beans, lentils and peas are the most commonly known and consumed types of pulses.
Staples dishes and cuisines from across the world feature pulses, from hummus in the Mediterranean (chick peas), to a traditional full English breakfast (baked navy beans) to Indian dal (peas or lentils).
For centuries, pulses have been vital to sustainable agriculture and nutrition. These small but impactful crops not only provide essential nutrients but also support healthier diets and resilient farming systems, making them a key source of nourishment even for the most vulnerable communities, contributing on leaving no one behind.Many grow in the UK. They are high in protein, low in fat, and rich in soluble fiber. Pulses can be served as standalone dishes, or incorporated into sauces, spreads, desserts, and as toppings. They count as one of your five-a-day and can be added as #JustOneMore veg to help you eat a healthy diet.

Why celebrate pulses?

To increase public awareness of the nutritional and environmental benefits of pulses
To recognise the potential of pulses to achieve the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development
To acknowledge the role of pulses in increasing global food security, building soil health, and diversifying agricultural systems. More information at FAO [Click link for Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations]: https://www.fao.org/world-pulses-day/en

Did you know?

Pulses increase farm biodiversity and create a richer landscape for animals and insects to thrive.
The nitrogen-fixing properties of pulses can improve soil fertility, which improves and extends the productivity of farmland.
Pulses are highly water efficient: for producing 1 kg of lentils needs 1250 liters, while 1 kg of beef requires 13,000 liters.

How can you celebrate World Pulses Day?

Learn more about the nutritional and environmental benefits of pulses
Try eating more pulses in your meals
Support the production and consumption of pulses