February 10, 2026
Institutions, private companies and communities came together as WPD 2026 marked ten years since the International Year of Pulses, underscoring how far pulses have moved on the global food agenda. Through its “Look Closer” campaign, the Global Pulse Confederation encouraged consumers to rethink everyday food choices, while activities across regions highlighted pulses’ expanding role in nutrition, sustainability and food security.
Agrocorp International marked World Pulses Day 2026 at its Singapore office, reflecting how companies across the pulse value chain engaged teams and extended the global conversation around pulses beyond public events.
From scientific forums and cultural exhibitions to industry gatherings and grassroots outreach, World Pulses Day 2026 is being marked across continents. This year, the Global Pulse Confederation’s “Look Closer” campaign invites consumers to take a more critical look at what’s on their plate, encouraging a renewed appreciation for foods that are real, affordable and naturally nourishing. Lentils, chickpeas, beans, peas, mung beans, tur, urad, and faba beans have long been part of everyday diets around the world, delivering protein, fibre and essential nutrients with minimal processing and a light environmental footprint.
In an era shaped by ultra-processed foods and digital illusion, pulses stand out for their simplicity and proven benefits. “There is a real consumer shift towards nutrient-dense food and the need to diversify your protein intake,” says GPC CEO Ryan Perkins. “Gut health has also become a priority. For all these factors, pulses are the clear stand out for their proven, natural benefits.”
World Pulses Day 2026 also marks ten years since the International Year of Pulses, a milestone that helped elevate pulses onto the global food agenda and laid the foundation for the growing momentum now reflected in celebrations around the world.
From global institutions to local initiatives, World Pulses Day 2026 reflected a shared effort to rethink the role of pulses in today’s food systems.
The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the Government of Spain hosted the global celebration of World Pulses Day 2026 under the theme “Pulses of the world: from modesty to excellence.” The theme seeks to challenge long-standing perceptions of pulses as humble or secondary foods, highlighting instead their nutritional value, culinary versatility and growing relevance within sustainable food systems. The main event took place at the Miguel Delibes Cultural Centre in Valladolid, Spain, bringing together policymakers, scientists, chefs and industry representatives.
The programme included an opening ceremony, a virtual scientific and culinary forum connecting international audiences, and a museum exhibition running from February 10 to March 10. Together, these activities aim to showcase how pulses are moving from the margins to the centre of global food conversations, bridging tradition with innovation while reinforcing their role in addressing nutrition, sustainability and food security challenges.
In India, World Pulses Day was marked through a conference organised by the Indian Institute of Pulses Research, featuring a keynote address by Mr Bimal Kothari, Chairman of the Indian Pulses and Grains Association. Focused on the theme “People, Pulses and Planet,” the event explored the role of pulses in nutrition security, sustainable agriculture and climate resilience. Mr Kothari was joined by Mr Satish Upadhyay, Honorary Secretary of the IPGA, reflecting close collaboration between research institutions and industry leadership.
Beyond the conference setting, IPGA is extending the celebration nationwide through an outreach initiative led by its Managing Committee Members. Pulses will be distributed to underprivileged communities in different regions, combining awareness-raising with direct action to encourage consumption and highlight the social value of pulses.
The Singapore Pulses Federation Limited will celebrate World Pulses Day in connection with its 10th anniversary, hosting an invitation-only cocktail reception on March 4. Under the theme “The Next Decade of Innovation,” the event will bring together federation members, partners, service providers and representatives of the diplomatic community. The celebration aims to reflect Singapore’s role as a regional hub for pulse trade and its growing engagement with collaboration, innovation and long-term industry development.
Agrocorp International marked World Pulses Day through an internal event held at its Singapore office on February 5. Designed to build awareness in an informal setting, the celebration included an interactive quiz focused on pulses, followed by a shared lunch. The initiative highlighted how World Pulses Day is being embraced not only through large public events, but also within companies seeking to engage teams and keep the conversation around pulses active.
In Australia, World Pulses Day is being observed as part of a broader Pulses Week running from February 9 to 15. Promoted by nutrition and industry stakeholders, the week-long initiative aims to raise awareness of pulses as everyday foods that support healthy diets and sustainable agriculture. By extending the focus beyond a single day, Pulses Week reinforces the relevance of pulses in modern eating habits while connecting nutrition, farming and consumer choices.
Disclaimer: The opinions or views expressed in this publication are those of the authors or quoted persons. They do not purport to reflect the opinions or views of the Global Pulse Confederation or its members.
