World Pulses Day

Pulses possess exceptional nutritional attributes and their cultivation provide immense environmental benefits. Nevertheless, their per capita consumption has declined in many countries – developed and developing. Dietary shifts, changing consumer preferences, and a lingering perception in some contexts that pulses are “humble” or traditional foods have contributed to this downward trend. In several societies – particularly in urban areas – pulses are still associated with low-cost diets or rural cuisine. These perceptions have often overshadowed the value of pulses . Their presence on plates around the world for centuries, across diverse cultures and socioeconomic contexts, demonstrates their key role in making nutritious diets accessible to everyone by providing affordable, nutrient-dense food. The  World Pulses Day 2026 theme “ Pulses of the world: from modesty to excellence ” was selected to highlight the required transformation – from humble origins to global recognition...

From improving human health to strengthening soil ecosystems , pulses merit a central place in modern, healthy, and sustainable diets . This year’s theme aims to challenge misconceptions that overshadow these crops and celebrate their true excellence. FAO is running a global campaign to raise awareness about the economic, social and environmental benefits of pulses . Whether you are a policymaker, farmer, educator or a pulses enthusiast, there is a role for you. Explore the newly published “ A guide to World Pulses Day 2026 ” for ideas, resources and practical tips tailored for different stakeholders. This comprehensive guide is your go-to resource to learn more about pulses and how you can take part in this global initiative. Calling all stakeholders  “There is compelling evidence of the contribution of pulses to healthy and sustainable agrifood systems. We invite Member Nations, international and regional organizations, civil society, and all those with an interest in pulses to ...

. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) facilitates the global observance of the  World Pulses Day  in collaboration with other relevant partners to underscore the critical importance of these crops in the quest for global food security and nutrition . FAO and the Kingdom of Spain are collaborating in the organization of this year’s observance, which is scheduled for 10 February 2026 at the Miguel Delibes Cultural Centre in Valladolid, Spain. The Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Rural Development of the Regional Government of Castile and León ( Castilla y León regional government ) is facilitating the event, which will be only the second time that this United Nations-designated observance will be held outside FAO Headquarters – an eloquent testimony to Spain’s strong commitment to sustainable agrifood systems . Pulses , and legumes in general, offer a sustainable option for diversifying agricultural production systems , contributing to ...

  Key messages Pulses are everyday foods and a powerful source of nutrients Versatile, nutritious and affordable, pulses are sources of protein and micronutrients contributing therefore to fighting hunger and malnutrition around the world. Pulses bring diversity from farm to table With several types available, farmers and consumers have an extensive array of choices – to suit their farming practices, market needs, cultures and dietary preferences. These add richness in terms of flavor and nutritional variety to diets. Greater crop diversity, which includes pulses, both on-farm and in the foods on our plates, is therefore key to resilient cropping systems and healthier people and ecosystems. Pulses bridge tradition and innovation Rooted in historic culinary traditions, pulses are now driving a wave of innovation in food products. Whether turned into flours, pastas, snacks or proteins, pulses open doors for chefs, entrepreneurs and farmers to create foods that satiate evolving taste...

On the occasion of the World Pulses Day 2026, the FAO Museum and Network opens a new exhibition spotlighting a powerful – yet often marginalized – set of crops for healthy diets and sustainable agrifood systems. The exhibition, titled “ Pulses of the World: From Modesty to Excellence ” after the 2026 World Pulses Day theme , will be on display from 10 February to 10 March 2026 in a dedicated space within the museum, welcoming both FAO staff and external visitors. Through an engaging display of a vast array of pulses and their end products from around the world, the exhibition invites visitors to rediscover the diversity and nutritional benefits of these crops and, uniquely, how the environment is enriched when they are cultivated. From traditional ingredients to novel food products to be displayed, it will be evident that pulses are key ingredients for healthy, modern and sustainable diets. Multimedia content complements the physical displays, offering insights into agricultural pr...

  Agenda Programme of the  World Pulses Day  2026" Pulses of the world: from modesty to excellence. " Scientific and culinary forum  | 11.30–13.00 (UTC + 1). This forum will explore the role of pulses in advancing sustainable agrifood systems and examine approaches to elevating these crops from their modest origins to the realm of gastronomic excellence . Opening Ceremony | 14.00–15.00 (UTC + 1). High level invitees will participate in the official opening of the World Pulses Day 2026 .   Valladolid, Spain, Hybrid event | 10 February 2026