America's Bean Boom: Cost, Health, and Versatility Fuel Rising Demand

Interest in beans is increasing among Americans, driven by their low cost, health benefits, and versatility, according to recent reports.

The Rise of Beans in Pop Culture

Bean-centric recipes are prevalent on social media platforms, including TikTok.

The cultural shift is tangible. A heirloom-bean service, Rancho Gordo, reports a waitlist of tens of thousands of people. Meanwhile, USA Pulses, a trade group, aims to double U.S. production and consumption of pulses (dry beans, lentils, chickpeas, dry peas) by 2030.

Health and Nutrition: A Legume-Based Solution

Beans are high in fiber and protein; half a cup of cooked beans contains about 8 grams of protein. This nutritional profile comes at a critical time, as a study in Current Developments in Nutrition found that only 7.4% of American adults consume the recommended daily amount of fiber.

Henry J. Thompson, a professor at Colorado State University, stated that pulse crops positively affect gut microbes. The 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee also recommended emphasizing beans, peas, and lentils while reducing red and processed meat consumption.

Economic Factors: A Budget-Friendly Protein

One can of beans, providing about 3.5 servings, can cost less than $1.

Beef prices have surged in recent years, contributing to increased bean sales. Historical data shows pulse consumption spikes during economic uncertainty, such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

Agricultural Benefits for a Warmer Planet

Beans are nitrogen-fixing plants, replenishing soil nitrogen and supporting sustainable agriculture, according to Joël Broekaert, author of "A History of the World in Twelve Beans."

Industry and Consumer Trends

USA Pulses is running a public awareness campaign urging Americans to eat half a cup of pulses daily. Food manufacturers are collaborating to create ready-to-eat pulse-based products, such as lentil and chickpea pastas.

Social media influencers, like Madeline Schapiro ("Bean Supporter"), promote bean recipes and host meetups.

Consumption Data: Echoes of the Past

U.S. consumption of beans, peas, and lentils was higher during the first half of the 20th century, particularly during the Great Depression, than today. Tim McGreevy, CEO of USA Pulses, noted that pulse popularity tends to increase during periods of economic uncertainty.