Celebrating World Pulses Day: The Powerhouse of Nutrition

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Date:- 2023-02-10 07:04:15

Every year World Pulses Day is celebrated on February 10 with an aim to spread awareness about the nutritional and environmental benefits of pulses as part of sustainable food production. Pulses also known as legumes, are considered as global foods, and are produced in almost every country. In 2019, the UN General Assembly dedicated a day to Pulses to increase awareness and access to pulses globally.

Pulses provide several benefits to agri-food systems and the environment, thus, the Steering Committee selected ‘Pulses for a Sustainable Future’ as the theme for the 2023 celebration.This year’s celebration will highlight the contribution of pulses towards improving soil productivity, increasing the resilience of farming systems, providing a better life for farmers in water-scarce environments, and more. Since pulses have a low water footprint and can better tolerate drought and climate-related disasters, they are imperative to sustainable food production.

World Pulses Day history and significance

The UN General Assembly recognised the value of pulses in 2013 and adopted the year 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYP). The Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) of the UN increased public awareness of the nourishing and environmental benefits of pulses.

As the International Year of Pulses concluded, Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa, proposed the observance of World Pulses Day. Finally, in 2019, the UN General Assembly dedicated February 10 as World Pulses Day.

Pulses are nutrient-rich and a great source of protein. They are low in fat and rich in fibre and they help in lowering cholesterol and in controlling blood sugar. They also help to combat obesity and aid in the management of non-communicable diseases including diabetes and heart conditions.

Pulses hold significant importance for farmers as a crop because they can both sell and consume them. Pulses are also easy to grow and require less water to flourish. They can better tolerate drought and climate-related disasters, providing security and economic stability to the farmers.

The nitrogen-fixing properties of pulses improve soil fertility and increase the productivity of the farmland. Thus, the celebration of World Pulses Day is important to spread awareness about the importance of pulses and their adoption across the world.

In recognition of the significance of pulses, World Pulses Day is celebrated every year on February 10th by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). Pulses, also known as legumes, have been a staple food for people all over the world for thousands of years and are a rich source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals.

At Cooper Pharma, we believe in promoting healthy eating habits and the consumption of nutritious food. On this World Pulses Day, we would like to highlight the benefits of incorporating pulses into your diet and why they deserve a place on your plate.

Benefits of Pulses

Pulses are incredibly versatile and can be used in a variety of dishes, from soups and stews to salads and side dishes. Here are some of the many benefits of consuming pulses:

• High in Protein: Pulses are an excellent source of plant-based protein, making them a great option for vegetarians and vegans.

• Rich in Fiber: Pulses are high in fiber, which can help improve digestion and prevent constipation.

• Low in Fat: Pulses are naturally low in fat, making them a healthy option for those watching their calorie intake.

• Good for the Heart: Pulses are rich in vitamins and minerals that can help lower cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

How to Incorporate Pulses into Your Diet

Incorporating pulses into your diet is easier than you think. Here are some simple tips to help you get started:

• Use them as a base for salads: Mix cooked pulses with your favorite veggies, herbs, and spices to make a delicious and nutritious salad.

• Add them to soups and stews: Pulses add protein and fiber to soups and stews, making them more filling and nutritious.

• Make dips and spreads: Blend cooked pulses with garlic, lemon juice, and spices to make a delicious dip or spread.

• Use them as a side dish: Cooked pulses make a great side dish, either on their own or mixed with other ingredients.

Conclusion

Pulses are a versatile and nutritious food that can be easily incorporated into your diet. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, making them a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. So, on this World Pulses Day, let's celebrate the power of pulses and start incorporating them into our meals.