Green lentils are a versatile and nutritious legume known for their slightly peppery flavor and firm texture. They are one of the most commonly used lentil varieties, found in a wide range of dishes from soups and stews to salads and side dishes. With a high protein and fiber content, green lentils are a popular choice in plant-based diets and are known for their health benefits.
Green lentils are small, round legumes that range in color from pale green to dark green. They have a firm texture that holds up well during cooking, making them ideal for soups, stews, curries, and salads. Green lentils are a rich source of plant-based protein, fiber, iron, and essential nutrients. Just like some other lentil varieties, green lentils retain their shape after cooking, which makes them a popular choice for dishes where a firmer texture is desired. They do not require pre-soaking, although a brief rinse is recommended before cooking. Green lentils are often considered a staple in vegetarian and vegan diets due to their high nutritional value and ability to serve as a meat substitute in various recipes.
Green lentils are a significant segment of the global lentil market, which is projected to reach USD 6.40 billion by 2029, growing at a CAGR of 2.80% from 2024 to 2029.
Green lentils come in various forms, including whole lentils, split lentils, and lentil flour. The whole lentils are the most commonly used form. Split green lentils, which have been hulled and split into halves, cook faster but have a softer texture and are typically used in soups or purees. Furthermore green lentils are also available as flour, which is used in gluten-free baking or for thickening soups and sauces.
For wholesale buyers, bulk green lentils are a popular option, offering cost-effective solutions for manufacturers, retailers, and food service businesses. They can be found in both conventional and organic varieties, catering to the growing demand for clean-label and organic products.
Furthermore there are different varieties of Green lentils known. Some of the most common, are:
Harvesting of green lentils is usually done once the plants have matured and the lentil pods are dry. The harvest season for green lentils generally occurs in late summer or early fall, depending on the growing region. The harvesting process involves cutting the plants and allowing the lentils to dry before they are collected and sorted. The harvest time is crucial for maintaining the quality and texture of the lentils, as premature harvesting can result in a softer texture, while over-ripening can cause the lentils to lose their shape. Green lentils are typically harvested between August and October in regions where they are grown.
The largest producers of green lentils are Canada, India, Turkey, and the United States. Canada, particularly Saskatchewan, is the global leader in lentil production, accounting for a significant share of the world's lentil exports. Other countries, such as India and Turkey, also have large-scale lentil cultivation, especially in regions with suitable growing conditions for legumes. The global demand for green lentils continues to rise, driven by their versatility and nutritional benefits. These countries play a key role in ensuring a steady supply of green lentils to meet the needs of consumers and businesses worldwide.
Canada, Australia, and India are major exporters of green lentils. In 2023, Canada led exports of lentils to India, with substantial trade to other markets like Bangladesh and the UAE.
Green lentils have a long history of cultivation, with evidence of their use dating back thousands of years in the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. In recent decades, green lentils have gained popularity worldwide due to their health benefits and growing demand for plant-based protein sources. As interest in plant-based diets has increased, green lentils have become a staple ingredient in vegetarian and vegan cooking, offering a versatile protein-rich alternative to animal products. The popularity of green lentils has also risen in the gluten-free market, where they are used in baking and cooking as a nutritious flour alternative. The trend toward healthier eating and sustainable food options has contributed to the increased consumption and production of green lentils globally.
The lentil market, which includes green lentils, is expected to reach 40.6 million tons by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 10.89% from 2023. This growth is driven by increasing demand for plant-based diets and lentils' high nutritional value
Green lentils are increasingly popular in Europe and North America, particularly in salads and as side dishes. These markets are seeing steady growth due to growing consumer preference for plant-based foods
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