Supply of pulses

Definition

Grams per person per day of pulses available in a country's food supply. Includes production plus imports minus exports and changes in pulse stocks. This indicator takes into consideration pulses as well as processed foods derived from pulses. Pulses are leguminous plants that are harvested for their dry seeds including dried beans, chickpeas, cowpeas, and lentils, among others. Data is drawn from the FAO Food Balance Sheets. Note that FAO's methodology for Food Balance Sheets changed for 2014 estimates and after, which may limit comparability pre and post-2014.

Relevance

Availability of pulses in the national food supply is a precursor to consumption of pulses, a component of WHO's recommended healthy diet. Note that this indicator does not consider differences in access and affordability of pulses among population subgroups.