Celebrate the true excellence of pulses.

 

Pulses possess exceptional nutritional values and provide inmense environmental benefits. Nevertheless, their per capita consumptionhas declined in many countries – developed and developing. Dietary shifts, changing consumer preferences, and a lingering perception in some contexts that pulses are a “humble” or traditional food have contributed to this downward trend. In several societies – particularly in urban areas – pulses are still associated with low-cost diets or rural cuisine. The 2026 theme aims to challenge these misconceptions and celebrate the true excellence of pulses. They are nutrientdense, versatile ingredients that are rich in protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. From improving human health to strengthening soil ecosystems, pulses merit a central place in modern, healthy, and sustainable diets. The theme “Pulses of the world: frommodesty to excellence” therefore highlights this transformation – from humble origins to global recognition for their flavours, nutritional attributes and culinary diversity. WorldPulses Day 2026 is a call for chefs, consumers, policymakers and producers to bring these remarkable crops back to the forefront of healthy and sustainable agrifood systems, where they rightly belong. A guide to World Pulses Day 2026