Protein crops are crops that provide substantial protein – with naturally occurring complex combinations of amino acids. Because of the protein content of their seeds, grain legumes, pseudocereals, and other crops are candidates to satisfy the growing demand for plant protein for food and feed.
Are protein crops a sustainable source of feed?
Grain legumes are valuable sources of protein and energy for monogastric animals. They include many crops such as dry beans, dry peas, chickpeas, and lentils, which are high in protein, fibre, and micronutrients. Although soybeans are also part of this list, many studies have looked into replacing them with other legumes in animal diets.