Pulses: A plant-based superfood capable of transforming nutrition security in sub-Saharan Africa.

Written by Agrojournalist Israel Obadare

PULSES are perhaps Africa’s most underutilized superfoods, suitable for growth in almost every part of the continent. With a rich nutritious profile and fast growth rates, pulses are capable of contributing significantly to food security and nutrition security goals of Africa.

So, what is this so called “superfood”? You may be tempted to ask. And perhaps wonder if you’ve had some on your food menu without knowing: how can you Identify one?

Pulses?refer to any class of edible seeds from legume plants (Fabaceae or Leguminosae) origins. They include, protein rich and dried seeds from known plants such as beans, lentils, and various types of peas. They mostly grow in pods and are found to be cultivated in many countries around the world; records have it that pulses have been grown and consumed by humans as far back as the 7th?century BC in the middle east.

Majority of pulses available around the world are highly nutritious and are a great source of protein, fiber, amino acids, folates and other essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and potassium. They are relatively inexpensive to grow, they are versatile and easily cultivable. Unfortunately, they remain under explored and underutilized, especially in Africa where there are over 10 types and over 50 species of pulses.

In 2016, in a bid to promote increased production and consumption of pulses, the UN-FAO declared a campaign aimed at promoting pulses as a healthy food option. With much success, the year was declared an International Year of Pulses- however, we believe much still need to be done, to have this superfood more locally available, demanded and utilized across Africa.

Pulses can be increasingly encouraged and utilized in a variety of African dishes, and can be made into soups, stews, porridge, potages, puddings, salads etc. They are also sustainable and have a relatively lower environmental impact compared to other protein sources.

Some common types of pulses cultivated in sub-Saharan Africa include:

· Beans, examples include kidney beans, black beans, chickpeas etc.

· Lentils including the green, brown, red varieties.

· Peas (including garden peas)

· Bambara groundnuts

· Cowpeas

· Pigeon peas

The nutritional and health benefits of pulses are enormous. Pulses are said to have numerous health benefits when included as meals, in the human diet. Benefits of pulses includes:

1. High protein content
2. Low fat content, and thus could help you manage your weight.
3. Rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals
4. Can help lower cholesterol and blood pressure
5. Can help regulate blood sugar levels

In conclusion, the African Farmers Story believes that, if well promoted and harnessed, pulses can be the next superfood providing food and nutrition, as well as improved livelihood to households in Africa.