Protein boom drives growth in pulse crop production

U.S. farmers are reporting a sharp increase in demand for pulse crops amid a global “protein boom.” Additional momentum comes from the popularity of GLP-1 drugs and social media trends promoting high-protein foods, reshaping global food consumption patterns.

Fifth-generation farmer Aaron Smith from northern Idaho says peas and lentils may be the only profitable crops for him this year. Against the backdrop of low grain prices, he plans to reduce wheat acreage in favor of pulse crops.

The U.S. agricultural sector remains under pressure from low profitability, oversupply, and rising input costs such as fertilizers and fuel. At the same time, pulses such as peas, lentils, and chickpeas are showing stronger economics due to rising domestic demand for plant-based protein products.

According to the USDA, U.S. pea acreage has increased by 55% over the past 15 years, while pea exports fell by 81% between 2021 and 2025. This indicates that a growing share of production is being absorbed by the domestic market.

Pulses are increasingly used in the food industry: pea protein is added to beverages and snacks, while lentil flour is used in pasta production. Major companies, including Archer-Daniels-Midland and Cargill, are expanding investments in the plant-based protein segment.

Experts also note agronomic benefits for farmers, as pulses enrich soil with nitrogen and require fewer fertilizers. This is particularly important amid high prices for agrochemicals and energy inputs.

However, researchers emphasize that there is no real protein deficiency in human diets, and the trend toward “excess protein consumption” is largely driven by marketing and social media rather than nutritional needs.

Despite ongoing debates about high-protein diets, analysts believe pulses will remain one of the most resilient segments in U.S. agriculture due to the combination of economic pressures and shifting consumer behavior.

Tags: lentil, pea, USA, chickpea, pulses