In Spain we produce on average 40% of the legumes we consume; only 30% in the case of beans, and 50% and 60%, respectively, in chickpeas and lentils. This means that our growth potential is still very high, and for this a strong development lever must be the new Common Agricultural Policy (CAP).
Brussels has made a firm commitment to this crop, due to its significant environmental advantages, such as low water consumption, its ability to fix carbon dioxide and, as a differential factor, its ability to enrich the soil through the natural contribution of nitrogen, which reduces the fertilization needs of subsequent crops.
For this reason, legumbrists breathe with some optimism, despite the reduced margins from the current economic situation and the increase in production costs. But it is not only necessary for demand to increase and prices to rise, but also for greater recognition of local products to be promoted over imported ones. For this, the differentiation in linear and the promotion of origin must play a very relevant role in this new period.
Consumption and prices rise
According to the Food Consumption Panel of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Food (MAPA), while in 2016 the annual consumption in Spain was only 3.1 kilos per person per year, in October 2022 it had already exceeded 3.4 kilos. This has meant an average annual growth of 3.3% in value, although a drop in volume of 2.2%
The last two campaigns have not helped either, with very short productions in Spain due to the scarcity of water; and also globally. This situation has not led to a lack of supply, but yes product shortage and, therefore, price rises, reinforced by the current inflationary current.
