World Pulses Day 2026: What It Is and Why It Is Important

Liputan6.com, Jakarta - Food is not only about taste. It is also about health, culture, and the future of our planet. Many global events help people learn more about what they eat. One of these important events is World Pulses Day, which focuses on small seeds that bring big benefits.

Every year on February 10, people around the world join activities, campaigns, and food programs linked to World Pulses Day. Farmers, health experts, and organizations use this moment to share knowledge. They want more people to understand how simple foods can support both human life and the environment.

In this article, we will talk about pulses, why is it important, and how to celebrate the World Pulses Day 2026. We gathered the information from various sources, Monday (9/2/2026).

Pulses are the edible dry seeds of legume plants. They grow inside pods and are harvested when fully dried. Common examples include lentils, chickpeas, dry beans, and peas. These foods are eaten in many cultures and are part of daily meals in different regions.

It is important to know that not all legumes are pulses. Crops like soybeans and peanuts are legumes, but they are mainly used for oil. Fresh green beans and green peas are also different because they are harvested while still green. Pulses always refer to dry seeds used for food.

Pulses come in many shapes, sizes, and colors. Some are small like lentils, while others are larger like broad beans. They have been grown for thousands of years and remain a key food source because they are affordable, easy to store, and simple to cook.

World Pulses Day highlights how these small seeds play a big role in modern life. Pulses support nutrition, farming, economies, and the environment. Below are several reasons why they are so important.

1. Support Global Nutrition

Pulses are rich in protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals that support overall health. They help people meet daily nutrition needs, especially in regions where meat and dairy are expensive or hard to access. Because of this, pulses are essential for balanced and affordable diets.

2. Help Fight Hunger

Pulses are affordable, widely available, and easy to transport and store. Their high nutrition and filling nature help reduce hunger in low‑income communities. Many governments and humanitarian programs include pulses in food aid because they are cost‑effective and nourishing.

3. Improve Heart Health

Many pulses are naturally low in fat and high in soluble fiber. This nutritional profile helps lower bad cholesterol levels and supports better blood sugar control. Eating pulses regularly may reduce the risk of heart disease and other diet‑related health conditions.

4. Enrich Soil Naturally

Pulse crops can fix nitrogen from the air and convert it into nutrients in the soil. This natural process improves soil fertility and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers. Farmers benefit from healthier soil, better crop yields, and more sustainable land management.

5. Support Sustainable Farming

Pulses grow well in crop rotation and intercropping systems alongside other plants. They help control pests, reduce soil erosion, and increase biodiversity on farms. These farming methods improve productivity while protecting natural ecosystems for long‑term agricultural sustainability.

6. Save Water Resources

Pulses require less water than many other protein crops. They can grow in dry climates and semi‑arid regions where water is limited. Their drought tolerance makes them a valuable crop as climate change continues to affect rainfall and water supplies.

7. Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Because pulses need little synthetic fertilizer, their production creates fewer greenhouse gas emissions. Their nitrogen‑fixing ability also improves soil naturally. This makes pulses an environmentally friendly food that supports climate‑smart agriculture and sustainable food systems.

8. Create Economic Opportunities

Pulse farming, processing, and trade generate employment across supply chains. Rural communities benefit through income, small businesses, and market access. Women and young farmers, in particular, gain entrepreneurship opportunities that strengthen local economies and food security.

World Pulses Day is celebrated globally on February 10. This special day encourages people to learn, share, and take action. There are many simple ways individuals and communities can participate.

1. Cook Meals With Pulses

Prepare dishes using lentils, beans, or chickpeas. You can make soups, stews, salads, or spreads. Replacing some meat meals with pulses is both healthy and budget‑friendly.

2. Share Awareness Online

Use social media to post facts, recipes, or photos of pulse‑based meals. Sharing educational content helps spread knowledge and encourages others to join the celebration.

3. Support Local Farmers

Buy pulses from local markets or cooperatives. Supporting local producers strengthens rural economies and promotes sustainable agriculture.

4. Join Community Events

Many schools, organizations, and food groups host exhibitions, cooking demos, and seminars. Attending these events helps people learn more about nutrition and sustainability.

5. Educate Children About Healthy Food

Teachers and parents can introduce pulses through school meals or simple cooking lessons. Early education helps children build lifelong healthy eating habits.

6. Try New Recipes

Experiment with global cuisines that use pulses, such as hummus, dal, or bean chili. Exploring new recipes makes the celebration more fun and engaging.

7. Donate To Food Programs

Food banks and aid groups often distribute pulses because of their long shelf life and high nutrition. Donations help support vulnerable communities.

8. Promote Sustainable Living

Use the day to reflect on food choices and environmental impact. Choosing more plant‑based proteins like pulses supports a more sustainable future.