International Year of Pulses

The International Year of Pulses (IYP) was observed in 2016 to raise awareness of pulses and their importance to healthy diets, food security, farmers’ livelihoods, soil health, and the environment. Pulses are the edible dry seeds of leguminous plants, including beans, chickpeas, peas, and lentils. They provide plant-based protein and micronutrients, while pulse crops can enrich soil and support more sustainable agricultural systems. The IYP final report explains that the United Nations General Assembly declared 2016 as the International Year of Pulses, with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) facilitating its implementation.

Under the slogan “Nutritious Seeds for a Sustainable Future,” FAO and its partners organized awareness-raising activities around the world. These included technical workshops, educational programs, cooking demonstrations, exhibitions, museum displays, and international fairs. The year also helped promote pulses as affordable, nutritious foods and highlighted their contributions to sustainable food production. The report records the IYP’s activities and continuing influence, while the United Nations’ World Pulses Day page notes that the later observance built on the success of the 2016 year.

How to Observe International Year of Pulses

Celebrate by preparing and enjoying a dish featuring beans, chickpeas, peas, or lentils. Learn about the nutritional and environmental roles of pulses, share information about them with others, or explore a cooking demonstration, exhibition, or educational activity inspired by the IYP. You can also support pulse producers and consider how pulses fit into more sustainable food systems.

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