Increasing the consumption of beans and pulses in the UK - A food systems approach

The Eatwell guide (Public Health England, 2018) states "Eat more beans and pulses", but doesn't quantify the increase. WWF has identified in its latest research, 'Eating for net zero' that 'Pulses such as beans and lentils become a greater part of our diet with a 50% increase' (Halevy & Trewern, 2023).

The aim of this research would therefore be to understand current consumption patterns, for which data is scarce, and to map and explore the potential interventions to facilitate a shift of this magnitude. The quantification of potential benefits will assist in making the case for policy intervention.

Changes in consumer behaviour are required to achieve the desired nutrition and health outcomes, as well as broader environmental benefits. But broader interventions across the food system are required to facilitate dietary change, notably in relation to food environments and supply chains. To increase the consumption of beans and pulses in the UK, systemic change will be necessary.