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Beans are gaining newfound appreciation in America. As many people look for affordable and nutritious food options, these small legumes are making a big impact. In this edition of our series, What’s Eating America, NPR’s Joe Hernandez explores the rising trend of consuming beans.
JOE HERNANDEZ, BYLINE: Before settling in to watch a Denver Broncos game, Henry Thompson grabs a bag of chips alongside a can of beans.
HENRY THOMPSON: You throw the beans in a blender, pour it out, and somehow during the game, it disappears. It’s astonishing!
HERNANDEZ: Thompson, a professor at Colorado State University, researches the health benefits of beans and other pulse crops. He highlights that these benefits are plentiful, helping with blood sugar levels, digestion, weight management, and even reducing cancer risk. Despite this, beans haven’t been consistent staples in the American diet in recent years.
THOMPSON: We’re missing out on their advantages. It’s high time for America to notice.
HERNANDEZ: There are several reasons why bean consumption is increasing. They are packed with fiber—something many people are trying to incorporate more into their diets. One study showed that only 7.4% of American adults meet the daily fiber requirements. Additionally, as food prices rise, Americans are turning to economical protein sources like beans.
TIM MCGREEVY: There’s definitely a renaissance happening.
HERNANDEZ: Tim McGreevy, CEO of USA Pulses, the trade organization for the pulse crop sector—including dry beans, lentils, chickpeas, and dried peas—notes that beans can enhance well-being.
MCGREEVY: Beans have a unique power to make you feel good.
HERNANDEZ: Beans have played a crucial role in agriculture for thousands of years and are a culinary cornerstone in numerous cultures worldwide. However, the rise of industrial meat production pushed them to the sidelines, according to Joel Broekaert, author of “A History Of The World In Twelve Beans.”
JOEL BROEKAERT: Historically, beans were seen as something you consume when you can’t get or afford meat.
HERNANDEZ: McGreevy indicates that bean sales typically surge during economic downturns, like what occurred during the COVID pandemic. Today, however, the enthusiasm for beans is reaching new heights. Social media influencers are sharing creative bean recipes, and fans are gathering in person to celebrate their love for legumes.
STEVE SANDO: You should embrace beans not only for their health advantages but also because they’re truly delicious.
HERNANDEZ: Steve Sando, owner of Rancho Gordo, an heirloom bean company based in Napa, California, reports significant growth since he launched the business in 2001. Now, Rancho Gordo sells around 2.5 million pounds of beans annually and has even launched a subscription bean club, reminiscent of local wine clubs, boasting 30,000 active members and another 32,000 on the waiting list.
SANDO: There’s something remarkable about cooking beans. You start with what seems like a rock, and after cooking, it turns into something creamy and delicious.
HERNANDEZ: Last year, USA Pulses announced a goal to double both the production and consumption of pulses in the U.S. by 2030. But how many beans should you actually eat? They recommend half a cup of pulses each day. Thompson from Colorado State University suggests why not aim for one and a half cups and be sure to enjoy a variety.
THOMPSON: When you go to Qdoba, which do you pick—black beans or pinto?
HERNANDEZ: Why not both? Joe Hernandez, NPR News.
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