The global market for legumes is valued at $44.9 billion and expected to reach $75.8 billion in 2025.
Driving the expansion, according to a new report from Hexra, has been rising consumer awareness concerning food benefits and health issues. Legumes are considered to be both an economical and healthy food option that should form part of a balanced diet.
These grains contain high dietary fiber and soluble fiber that can help to control and lower blood cholesterol levels. Presence of vitamin B, calcium, iron, magnesium, zinc and phosphorous in legumes assist in managing the sugar levels in diabetic patients worldwide.
Beans held the largest share in the global market in 2017 and the demand for dry and edible beans is increasing in the U.S., China and India markets.
What’s more, China is the largest importer of bean products. Dry beans are the most consumed legume grain across the globe, and more than 30% of global consumers prefer dry beans over others. In terms of variety, dry peas, chickpeas, dry broad beans, cowpeas, lentils, pulses, among others represent other favorite legumes. More than 20% and 10% population prefer consuming dry peas and chickpeas.
Europe has a stable production of dried beans. In 2017, around 200,000 tons of dried and 600,000 tons of broad beans were the main types produced in Europe. Ireland, Lithuania, Poland, Latvia, Romania, and Greece represent the major European countries with significant production of beans.
The second largest segment is the legumes’ market is peas — contributing more than 25% of the global legumes market. It is popular thanks to its high protein and calorie value. It is worth noting that 170 gm green peas contain 62 gm calorie, 4 gm fiber and 4 gm protein — and that can help to control blood sugar levels.
Green peas contain substantial heart-healthy minerals, such as calcium, magnesium, and potassium, which can decrease the risk of heart disease. Dry peas are produced in large part in Canada, China, Russia, India, Ukraine, and Australia.
India, Turkey, Pakistan, Iran, Mexico, and Canada are the top Chickpea producers.
