Legumes as an alternative source of protein

Giorgos Prekatsakis from the Laboratory of Soil Science and Plant Diagnostics at CIHEAM MAICh was invited as a panellist to share expertise and key insights from the BioValue Project on the topic “Legumes as an alternative source of protein.” Legumes hold a central role in the BioValue project, which aims to boost the sustainability and market potential of biodiversity-based value chains. This event took place during the first General Assembly where CIHEAM officially launched the BEANS Meta Network (Better pulses for Environment, Agriculture, Nutrition and Societies). The network links multiple organizations, including CIHEAM Bari, FAO, PRIMA Foundation, ICARDA, Biodiversity CIAT, AOAD, IFAD, ACSAD, CMU, ILS, and the European Commission’s DG AGRI, supported by representatives from various countries, research centers, and universities. Together, they share a vision to revalue legumes as a regional public good, serving territories, farmers, consumers, and future generations. This collaborative effort highlights legumes’ importance for sustainable agriculture, nutrition, and environmental benefits.