Contribution of locally produced grain legumes to the agrobiodiversity

General introduction

In this special LEADER project, we are bringing together farm butchers and (pioneering) legume growers to jointly explore smart processing and marketing opportunities in the region for locally grown field beans, yellow pea, lupin, dry beans and soybeans. By developing regional chains that valorize locally produced legumes, we aim to convince more farmers to sow these crops. Despite the many environmental benefits of legumes, candidate growers experience barriers due to lack of knowledge and local marketing opportunities. The idea of incorporating legumes into the assortment of farm butchers offers perspective because the supply of locally produced legumes is not yet large enough to go to large food companies. The additional price of local legumes versus imported products can be compensated: at the farm butcher, the consumer expects to pay a premium for the locally-sourced raw materials and the short-chain concept.  

Research approach

The geographic focus of Diversi-Peul is on the region of the LEADER area 'Flemish Ardennes to Dender'. In that area we convince farmers to integrate legumes into their rotation and continue to guide them, thus contributing to the agrobiodiversity of the region. With the development of innovative local food products (such as e.g. a hybrid meat-and-pea sausage), the farm butchers respond to the sustainability demands of their consumers. We organize information meetings, field demos, inspirational and technical workshops for farm butchers and a learning network for farmers. Experts support the companies involved in cost price calculation, crop choice, food safety, and setting up successful partnerships.

Relevance/Valorisation

This project offers multiple opportunities to make agricultural production more sustainable. Legumes require fewer external inputs because they can extract nitrogen from the air. With their deep-rooting crops, they are resistant to drought. At the same time, they promote soil quality and, during their flowering phase, local biodiversity. They create an attractive landscape. With the development of local food products, which are tasty, accessible and affordable, we are also responding to a more sustainable consumer behavior: healthy, attractive, seasonal and continuous local purchases.

Funding provider(s)
Vlaamse Landmaatschappij

External partner(s)
Boerenbond