A sustainable and nutritious food source for a better future

Discover the role of pulses in achieving sustainable food systems and a healthy diet on World Pulses Day. Learn about the history, significance, and future plans of this global event on February 10.

World Pulses Day, Source: Poket News

World Pulses Day is a global event observed on February 10 to raise awareness about the importance of pulses as a sustainable food source. Pulses are the edible seeds of leguminous plants and include dried beans, peas, and lentils. They are an essential part of a healthy diet and play a critical role in addressing poverty, food security, and climate change.

The United Nations General Assembly (UNGA) adopted 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP). The UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) increased public awareness on the nourishing and environmental benefits of pulses during this year. As the International Year of Pulses succeeded, Burkina Faso, a country in West Africa, proposed to celebrate World Pulses Day. In 2019, the UNGA announced February 10th as World Pulses Day with the objective of increasing awareness and access to pulses worldwide.

The theme for World Pulses Day 2022 was "Pulses to empower youth in achieving sustainable agrifood systems." It focused on generating livelihood opportunities and equity, which are also significant for sustainable agrifood systems. The program also focuses on the testimonies and perspectives of youth organizations' representatives. Pulses also provide employment to rural women and youth in the farming as well as the manufacturing sectors.

The significance of pulses in our diet and in sustainable food production cannot be overstated. Pulses are a rich source of protein, fiber, and other essential vitamins and minerals. They are low in fat and cholesterol, making them a healthy option for those who want to maintain a balanced diet. Pulses are also a crucial component of sustainable food production as they have nitrogen-fixing properties that help to improve soil fertility, increasing the fertility and productivity of farmland.

Pulses have been a staple food for humans for thousands of years. The first evidence of pulses comes from over 11,000 years ago in the Fertile Crescent, a region in the Middle East that was home to some of the earliest human civilizations. Today, pulses are a staple ingredient in dishes and cuisines from around the world. The FAO recognizes 11 types of pulses: dry beans, dry broad beans, dry peas, chickpeas, cow peas, pigeon peas, lentils, bambara beans, vetches, lupins, and pulses.

Pulses play a critical role in addressing poverty, food security, and climate change, and are an essential part of a healthy diet. World Pulses Day recognises their importance in the global food chain and provides an opportunity to raise awareness about them as part of sustainable food production aimed towards food security and nutrition.