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Pulses market grows as consumers demand more plant-based protein

Pulses are gaining traction both as a source of protein in developing markets and as key ingredients in plant-based products in developed countries.

The global pulses market, which includes beans, peas, chickpeas, and lentils, is experiencing notable growth as consumers increasingly seek plant-based proteins and sustainable food options.

A RaboResearch report has highlighted the potential for pulses to expand beyond their current niche status within the global grains and oilseeds sector, offering opportunities for both established players and new entrants in the market.

Market growth driven by changing consumer preferences

According to the RaboResearch report, global pulse production is currently estimated at around 100 million metric tonnes annually.

While this figure is modest compared with major grains like corn and wheat, the trade in pulses has grown by 29% since 2015, with the International Grains Council estimating that it will account for 20% of global production – 21 million metric tonnes – in 2024.

Lentils, chickpeas, and dry beans account for more than two-thirds (68%) of the global pulse trade.

New players in the market include Turkey, which is an increasingly important processing and distribution centre for the regional pulse trade, and Argentina, which has boosted its export in beans.

Russia, already an established player in the segment, is exporting a growing number of dried peas.

Plant-based power: Drivers of pulses market growth

Market growth is largely driven by two key factors: increasing consumption of pulses as a primary protein source in emerging markets – with growing demand for mung beans in China, chickpeas in India, and a variety of pulses across Africa – and rising demand in developed countries for plant-based meat and dairy alternatives.

While soy remains the most common alternative protein in many plant-based foods, pea and chickpea proteins are gaining attention.

A 2023 Mintel patent analysis showed that pea and chickpea proteins are listed in 16% of patents for food and drink that contain plant-based proteins – second only to soy, at 38%. Legumes are also popular, with 8% of patents listing them as a source.

Meanwhile, a Mintel and Kantar internet survey showed that beans and legumes are by far the most popular protein source for US plant-based protein consumers, with a 79% net favourability – ahead of grains, at 42%.

A 2023 study by Ernst & Young forecasted the global market for plant-based meat to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 16.5% between 2021 and 2035. This estimate would put the plant-based meat market size at close to $140 billion in two decades.

Louis Dreyfus Company capitalises on pulse demand

Amid this growing demand, the Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) has launched a dedicated pulses business unit, underscoring the increasing importance of pulses in global food systems. The new unit will focus on yellow peas, chickpeas, red lentils, faba beans, and pigeon peas, targeting key importing markets such as India, China, and the Middle East.

LDC CEO Michael Gelchie said: “[P]ulses have gained prominence as a primary source of plant-based proteins and are also an ally for sustainable agriculture, as crops with properties that improve soil health and reduce agricultural greenhouse gas emissions.”

LDC’s expansion into pulses aligns with its broader sustainability strategy. Pulses are also known for their nitrogen-fixing properties, which improve soil health and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Challenges and opportunities in the pulse market

Despite the positive outlook, the pulses market faces several challenges.

A lack of market transparency and price volatility are significant barriers to entry for new players. Unlike grains, pulses are not widely traded as commodities, which complicates the price discovery process and limits market data availability.

Moreover, while pulses are increasingly recognised for their environmental benefits, greater efforts are needed to promote their use as a sustainable food source.

The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has been working to raise awareness of the nutritional and environmental advantages of pulses, highlighting lesser-known varieties such as adzuki beans, mung beans, Bambara nuts, and tarwi.

These pulses offer significant growth potential in both traditional and new markets.