U.S. Department of Agriculture
Agricultural Research Service
Pulse Crops
[Running time:  ~ 1:30]

Welcome to “Focus on Ag Research” from the Agricultural Research Service or A-R-S.  A-R-S is the U-S Department of Agriculture’s chief scientific research agency.

This year, the United Nations is spotlighting the nutritional value and additional benefits of pulse crops – plants like dry peas, lentils, chickpeas, and dry beans that are harvested primarily for their dry seed.  These crops provide people around the world – especially in developing countries – with essential plant-based proteins and amino acids.  As part of a healthy diet,  pulse crops help address obesity and manage chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart conditions.

A-R-S has a long history of supporting pulse crop research that has led to the development of high-yielding varieties with enhanced nutritional qualities. Scientists have helped U.S. growers improve a number of traits and made additional global contributions, particularly through “Feed the Future”—a world hunger and food security initiative. 

Additional A-R-S research has improved both germplasm and commercial varieties offering better pest and disease resistance. Thanks to A-R-S, today’s pulse crops are more nutritious and more tolerant of environmental conditions like drought.   

To learn more about ARS pulse crop research, visit AgResearch magazine at www.agresearchmag.ars.usda.gov.  
That’s our podcast for today.  Thanks for listening.