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Abstract

Objective: To map the spread of research on legumes, including beans, peas, and other pulses; to identify research gaps and opportunities relating to the use of legumes for improved human nutrition, health and environmental outcomes; and to develop a novel method for clarifying research priorities.

Design: Prospective mapping review, identifying and mapping ongoing research (2019-2023) across the value chain.

Setting: UK

Participants/sample: Academic research studies in three databases

Results: 50 ongoing research projects were identified, revealing a focus on the two ends of the value chain: production (21 projects) and consumption (21 projects). Only four projects encompassed the entire value chain from producer to consumer. Research on production includes the role of legumes in crop rotations for soil health and reduced fertiliser use, productivity interventions, and improved breeds. Research on consumption includes dietary and health outcomes, predominantly cardiometabolic impacts, and legumes as an alternative protein source. Few projects focused on the middle of the value chain (four projects on product development) with none focused on processing, food service or retail.

Conclusions: Further interdisciplinary projects, linking producers to consumers and with a greater focus on middle chain actors, are needed. The food processing/ manufacturing, food service and retail sectors hold significant power in food systems practice and governance. They play a crucial role in transitioning to a healthier and more sustainable food system. Understanding the drivers and barriers for these food systems actors in increasing production and consumption of beans, peas and pulses is required to inform future food policy and practice

Publication Type:	Article
Additional Information:	© The Author(s), 2026. Published by Cambridge University Press on behalf of The Nutrition Society This is an Open Access article, distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution licence (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/), which permits unrestricted re-use, distribution and reproduction, provided the original article is properly cited.
Publisher Keywords:	Food systems, Sustainable diets, Mapping review, Legumes, Pulses
Departments:	School of Health & Medical Sciences School of Health & Medical Sciences > Department of Population Health & Policy
SWORD Depositor:	Symplectic Administrator

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