Improving the availability of UK sourced protein feed through new faba bean varieties, production and utilisation systems

PROJECT TITLE: Improving the availability of UK sourced protein feed through new faba bean varieties, production and utilisation systems
Summary: The shortfall in sustainable protein produced in the UK and the EU creates an opportunity to evaluate and improve an established crop with previously untapped potential. The high protein content and acceptability of faba beans by some, but not all, of the feed industry offers the opportunity of market expansion for home produced legumes through advanced feeding trials. Faba beans are self sufficient in nitrogen and leave residual N for following crops, so contributing to environmental sustainability. However, the yield potential, and thus protein yield, of faba beans is seldom maximised. This project will establish the effects of advanced agronomy on faba bean output, and address the issue of yield stability by genetic selection and improved breeding processes to generate new varieties of faba bean optimised for feed markets