February 10: World Pulses Day

Céline Arétin, culture, women's issues and environment correspondent, February 10, 2026

Origin and purpose of World Pulses Day

World Pulses Day, celebrated every February 10, was established by the United Nations in 2018 to highlight the role of pulses in food security, nutrition and sustainable agriculture. Pulses are plants from the legume family whose edible seeds, such as lentils, chickpeas, beans and fava beans, are rich in protein, fiber and minerals, and have the unique ability to naturally improve soil fertility by capturing nitrogen from the air through a symbiosis with bacteria present in their roots.

Nutritional benefits of pulses

Rich in plant protein, pulses are an alternative to animal protein, especially for vegetarians and vegans. Their high soluble fiber content aids digestion and helps regulate blood sugar, which is beneficial for diabetics. Their low glycemic index also helps with weight management by prolonging the feeling of fullness: in France, nutritionists recommend chickpeas to reduce cravings and prevent snacking. Pulses are also an excellent source of non-heme iron, essential for preventing anemia, particularly in pregnant women and children. They are also rich in potassium and magnesium, minerals that help regulate blood pressure. Finally, their richness in antioxidants and polyphenols helps prevent cardiovascular disease.

Main varieties of pulses consumed around the world

In India, lentils are widely used in dal, a traditional protein-rich dish. Chickpeas, for their part, are essential in Middle Eastern cuisine, used to make hummus in Lebanon or falafel in Egypt. In Latin America, red beans accompany Mexican dishes such as burritos, while black beans are the base of feijoada in Brazil. Fava beans are widely consumed in the Mediterranean, notably in ful medames in Egypt and Tuscan soup in Italy. Soy dominates in Asia, where it is turned into tofu, soy sauce and miso. Mung beans, grown in Asia, are used to make transparent noodles and Vietnamese desserts such as che dau xanh. In Southern Europe, lupin beans are often served as an appetizer, particularly in Portugal.