Protein Crops

The UK market for pulses is close to 1.50 million tonnes per annum but in 2009 we only produced an estimated 0.65 million tonnes. (figure courtesy of the British Edible Pulse association). There is therefore huge potential for UK growers to produce crops for domestic and export markets many of which attract good premiums for suitable samples.

Protein crops grown in the UK include spring and winter beans, combining peas, and a range of lupin species. The markets for these crops are animal feed, micronising, canning and packet peas, the pigeon trade, and various export outlets. 

Domestically grown protein crops are in direct competition with imported soybeans and soya meal for the annual 750,000 tonnes requirement for vegetable protein, but there are still plenty of added-value opportunities to aim for. Domestic markets for marrowfat peas and the export trade for edible beans have been particularly attractive in recent years. 

LG varieties feature prominently in the major segments of this market: field beans for animal feed and the edible trade; white, blue and marrowfat peas, and maple peas for forage use or pigeon feed. 

If you have any questions for either our Pea Breeder, Will Pillinger, or our Protein Crops specialist Les Daubney, please send them to enquiries@limagrain.co.uk or telephone 01472 371471.