Brazil
Brazil stands out as one of the world’s largest consumers of beans, with black beans (feijão preto) being a daily staple for millions. According to the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics, Brazilians eat an average of 19 kg of beans per person yearly, making it a crucial part of their diet. Beans are central to the iconic dish feijoada, a rich black bean stew, and are often served with rice at nearly every meal. This widespread bean consumption is linked to improved nutrition and lower rates of chronic diseases in Brazil, as highlighted in public health studies from 2023. The government’s school lunch programs also feature beans prominently to combat childhood malnutrition. Clearly, beans are not just food in Brazil—they’re a cultural backbone and a nutritional safeguard.
Mexico
In Mexico, beans are more than just a side dish; they are the heart of traditional cuisine, featured in everything from burritos to refried beans. The Mexican Ministry of Agriculture reported that the country produced over 1.1 million tons of beans in 2023, with pinto, black, and kidney beans being the most popular. Research from the National Institute of Public Health shows that Mexicans consume around 9 kg of beans per person each year. Beans provide affordable protein and are a vital part of food security, especially for lower-income families. Their high fiber content supports digestive health, and regular bean consumption has been associated with lower rates of obesity and diabetes in Mexican populations, according to recent health surveys.
Nigeria
Nigeria ranks among the highest bean-consuming countries in Africa, with cowpeas and black-eyed peas being dietary staples. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization, Nigerians consumed over 3 million tons of beans in 2024, making the country a global leader in both production and consumption. Beans are a key source of protein for millions, especially in rural areas where meat is less accessible. Popular dishes like moi moi and akara showcase the creative ways Nigerians use beans in everyday cooking. Recent research from Nigerian universities highlights the role of beans in reducing malnutrition and supporting food security, making their consumption not just a tradition but a national priority.
India
India’s love affair with beans, known locally as pulses, is legendary, with lentils, chickpeas, and mung beans forming the base of countless curries and dals. The Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare reports that India produced over 25 million tons of pulses in 2023, the highest in the world. An average Indian eats about 15 kg of beans and pulses annually, according to the National Sample Survey Office. Beans are essential for the country’s predominantly vegetarian population, offering affordable protein and crucial micronutrients. Studies published in 2024 link India’s high bean consumption to lower incidences of heart disease and improved gut health. The government also supports pulse farming to promote food security in a country where beans are a lifeline for millions.
United States
The United States may surprise some by appearing on this list, as Americans have steadily increased their bean intake in recent years. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Americans consumed more than 3 kg of dry beans per person in 2024, a figure that’s been rising amid growing interest in plant-based diets. Black beans, kidney beans, and navy beans are the most popular varieties, featured in everything from chili to salads. Research from Harvard School of Public Health highlights the health benefits of beans, linking their consumption to reduced cholesterol and improved heart health. The push for sustainable agriculture has also placed beans in the spotlight, as they are environmentally friendly and inexpensive. Beans are now seen as both a nutrition powerhouse and a climate-friendly choice in the American diet.
