Grains and Pulses: Essential for a Thriving Global Food System

Grains and Pulses: Essential for a Thriving Global Food System

Grains and pulses are essential food crops that provide billions of people around the world with a staple source of carbohydrates, protein, and other nutrients. Grains are the seeds of cereal grasses, such as wheat, rice, corn, and oats, while pulses are the dried seeds of legumes, such as beans, lentils, peas, and chickpeas.

Global Grains and Pulses Production and Trade

In 2022, global grains production totaled over 2.8 billion metric tons, while global pulses production totaled over 370 million metric tons. The top five grain producers were China, India, the United States, Russia, and Brazil. The top five pulse producers were India, Canada, Myanmar, Australia, and China.

The global grains and pulses trade is also significant. In 2022, global grains exports totaled over 430 million metric tons, while global pulses exports totaled over 60 million metric tons. The top five grain exporters were Russia, the United States, Ukraine, Canada, and Australia. The top five pulse exporters were Canada, India, Myanmar, Australia, and the United States.

Key Grains and Pulses

The following are some of the most important grains and pulses grown and traded around the world:

Grains
Wheat: The most widely grown crop, used to make bread, pasta, flour, and cereal.
Rice: The second most widely grown crop, a staple food for over half the world’s population.
Corn: The most widely produced crop, used for food, feed, and fuel.
Oats: A nutritious cereal grain often eaten for breakfast.

Pulses
Beans: A good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Lentils: A protein-rich pulse that is easy to cook and versatile.
Peas: A pulse that is a good source of protein, fiber, and vitamins.
Chickpeas: A pulse used to make hummus and falafel, rich in protein and fiber.
Grains and Pulses in the Global Food System

Grains and pulses play a vital role in the global food system, serving as a staple food for billions and as key ingredients in a variety of food products and animal feed.

However, the market faces challenges such as population growth, climate change, and water scarcity.

Opportunities in the Grains & Pulses Market

Despite these challenges, the growing demand for plant-based foods and the development of new agricultural technologies present opportunities for the grains and pulses market.

By investing in research and development and improving agricultural practices, we can ensure everyone has access to the nutritious grains and pulses they need to thrive.