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Abstract

Biodiversity Online J

Common Beans (Phaseolus Vulgaris L.)

Submission: July 19, 2021; Published: July 26, 2021

Abstract

Among the grain legumes, common beans are the most important for human consumption worldwide. They are produced globally with Latin America being the largest producer and consumer (45% of world production). Per capita consumption in Latin American countries, according to FAO data, is approx. 21kg in Guatemala, 20kg in Nicaragua, 16.1kg in Brazil and 10.1kg in Mexico. In addition to being a source of protein, beans are a source of iron, potassium, magnesium, zinc, fiber, starch, folic acid and thiamine, in significant quantities, which, together with the protein content, makes them an ideal alternative to substitute meats and other protein products. Production statistics in Latin America show marginal growth in common bean production in the past decades, which is due to several reasons; there is a sustained work of genetic improvement, e.g., developing disease-resistant varieties s combined with good yield potential.

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