What is a "legume"?

Legumes are plants like beans, peas, lentils, and peanuts that grow in pods. These pods contain several seeds lined up inside. Legumes are rich in protein, fiber, and other important nutrients. Legumes play a crucial role in agriculture and food production, as they are cultivated for human consumption, animal feed, and soil enrichment through nitrogen fixation. Additionally, legumes are a sustainable source of protein and contribute to a balanced and nutritious diet.