24th NCE Exports Awards 2016
On September 30, 2016, Pulses Splitting & Processing Industry Pvt Ltd was once again recognized for its significant contribution to the Sri Lankan economy through pulse exports. The company received a Silver Award in the Export Agriculture Value Added Sector (Extra Large Category) at the 24th National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka’s Export Awards for 2015–2016.
International Year Of Pulses 2016 in Sri Lanka Dec Mar 03, 2016 Pulse Importers of Sri Lanka, in affiliation with the Essential Commodity Importers and Traders Association, launched the “International Year of Pulses 2016” recently, following the declaration of year 2016 the “International Year of Pulses” by the UN General Assembly. The event organizers of the ‘Pulse Festival in Sri Lanka’ Mahmud Abdul Cader and Manjula Lanrolle spoke to Daily News on the importance of raising awareness on pulse consumption to heighten food security, alleviate hunger and eliminate malnutrition along with the positive environmental impacts of cultivating pulses on mass scale.
Q: First and foremost, could you give a brief description of ‘pulses’?
A: Pulses are the dry seeds obtained from plants of legume species. Pulses are grown in pods and are separated during harvest. Dhal (Masoor and Vatana Dhal), chickpeas, Moong beans, black grams (Ulundu), cowpea are the popular types of pulses in Sri Lanka. Pulses are an essential item in the Sri Lankan diet. They are household consumption, restaurants or special occasions, pulses play a vital role. Many sayings in Sinhala language such as ” Parippu nathi Hotalaya vage” and ” Parippu keva” etc explicitly shows how closely pulses are interconnected with the Sri Lankan tradition and culture.
Q: Are pulses and cereals two different items?
A: Yes, they are distinct. Pulses are derived from legume species and are primarily valued for their high plant-based protein content. In contrast, cereals come from grasses cultivated for their edible starch. While pulses are known for their protein, cereals are rich in carbohydrates.
Q: Could you elaborate on the health advantages of consuming pulses?
A:Pulses offer numerous health benefits due to their rich nutrient profile. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, which helps address protein deficiencies. Pulses are also high in fiber, vitamins, and essential minerals such as magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, and zinc, which support digestive health and can alleviate issues like indigestion and constipation.
Additionally, pulses are rich in iron and zinc, which can help prevent anemia, particularly in children and women. For vegetarians, pulses are a valuable alternative protein source. They are low in fat, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and combat obesity—a common issue for those consuming a lot of junk food. Regular consumption of pulses can also contribute to prolonged youth and increased life expectancy due to their overall health benefits.
Q: Why should we encourage consumption of plant-based-protein sources such as pulses whereas the animal-based dietary proteins are readily available in the market?
A:While animal-based proteins are readily available, they can have several negative health effects. High consumption of meat has been linked to an increased risk of various diseases, including cancer, kidney ailments, high blood pressure, and obesity. The saturated fats found in meat can contribute to heart disease and other cardiovascular issues.
In contrast, plant-based proteins, such as those found in pulses, offer a healthier alternative. They are typically lower in saturated fat and free from the inflammatory properties associated with animal proteins. Consuming plant-based proteins can support better overall health, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and promote a longer life expectancy. Additionally, a diet rich in plant-based proteins is less likely to cause premature puberty or other health concerns linked to high animal protein intake.
Q: Among the chief expectations of declaring 2016 the International Year of Pulses, assuring food security, alleviating hunger and eliminating malnutrition are highlighted. How can Sri Lanka achieve these goals?
A:Pulses are well-suited to help achieve these goals. Their long shelf life allows them to be stored for extended periods without spoiling, which ensures a stable food supply between harvests and enhances food security. Additionally, pulses can be grown in less fertile lands where other crops might not thrive, increasing food availability and reducing hunger.
Moreover, pulses are a rich source of essential nutrients and proteins, which can help combat malnutrition. By promoting the cultivation and consumption of pulses, Sri Lanka can improve nutrition and contribute to the overall well-being of its population.
Q: How does the production of pulses help mitigate environmental issues?
A:Pulses contribute significantly to environmental sustainability through several mechanisms. Firstly, leguminous plants, including pulses, host symbiotic bacteria called Rhizobia in their root nodules. These bacteria fix atmospheric nitrogen into the soil, enhancing soil fertility naturally. This process reduces the need for synthetic fertilizers, which can have adverse environmental impacts.
Additionally, pulses are beneficial in crop rotation systems. They help control pests and diseases naturally, reducing reliance on chemical pesticides. Their ability to enhance soil fertility and structure also improves water retention and prevents soil erosion.
Certain pulse species can release soil-bound phosphorus, further enriching the soil and supporting plant nutrition. By increasing organic matter and microbial biomass, pulses contribute to healthier soils and a more sustainable agricultural system, which ultimately helps mitigate climate change.
Q : What are the current trends of the global pulses market?
A:The global pulses market is influenced by major producers and exporters such as Australia and Canada, which are leading suppliers in the industry. Developed countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, and Japan, as well as emerging markets like India and China, rely heavily on pulse imports.
The declaration of 2016 as the International Year of Pulses has raised awareness about the nutritional benefits and importance of pulses. This increased awareness is expected to drive growth in pulse consumption and trade. As pulse importers in Sri Lanka, we are keen to collaborate with relevant authorities to promote awareness campaigns throughout the year, highlighting the role of pulses in alleviating hunger and combating malnutrition.
