Beans

Origin and History of Beans

Beans are one of the oldest legumes cultivated by humankind, with records dating back more than 7,000 years. Their origin is linked to the Mesoamerica and Andes regions, where indigenous peoples domesticated numerous varieties. Beans were one of the main protein sources in the diet of these civilizations, often grown together with corn and squash in a practice known as the "three sisters."

With the arrival of European colonizers in the Americas, beans were taken to Europe, Africa and Asia, becoming a staple food in many cultures around the world. In Brazil, beans were already widely consumed by indigenous peoples before Portuguese colonization and became one of the main components of the Brazilian diet over the centuries, forming, together with rice, the foundation of the national diet.

Expansion of Bean Farming in Brazil

Beans have always held a prominent place in Brazilian agriculture, initially as a subsistence crop. Over the years, they also came to play an important role in the agricultural economy, especially due to strong demand in the domestic market.

Bean production is spread across the entire country, thanks to the diversity of varieties adapted to different climates and soils. Brazil is the world’s largest producer and consumer of beans, with the states of Paraná, Minas Gerais, Goiás and Mato Grosso standing out.

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