February 10 is observed as World Pulses Day, which encourages the consumption of pulses. Pulses are defined as a type of crop including legumes such as beans and lentils.

According to the United Nations, pulses contribute to food security.

“Pulses are an important crop because they can be both sold and consumed by the farmers and their families,” the international organization noted. “Furthermore, the nitrogen-fixing properties of pulses improve soil fertility, which increases and extends the productivity of the farmland.”

In addition, the UN Food and Agriculture Organization pointed out pulses are nutritious, economically accessible, offer important health benefits, and promotes biodiversity.

Former Department of Health (DOH) Secretary Paulyn Jean Rosell-Ubial previously discussed the benefits of pulses in encouraging the public to take on healthier diets.

“DOH is calling on all Filipinos to turn away from unhealthy diets in favor of healthier foods,” she said in a press release. “We can’t think of any alternatives to accomplish this one than to introduce more pulses into our diets.”/WDJ