BROAD BEAN A MULTIPURPOSE LEGUME VEGETABLE CROP

Abstract

Broad bean, like other beans, is a good source of calories, protein, carbohydrates, and fibre. It is also rich in phosphorus, iron, potassium, and vitamin B complex. However, the occurrence of some antinutritional factors such as phytohemaglutinins, protease inhibitors, polyphenols, saponins, phytates, etc. has hampered a wider nutritional utilization of this legume. Athough an incredible crop, unfortunately in India it is categorized as minor, underutilized, less utilized, and still not fully exploited crops. It is rabi pulse / legume of Northern plains and grown during rainy season in the foothills. It is a wonderful legume which can grow in profitable manner in wide range of pH (5.5 to 9.0) and ability to excel under almost all type of climatic conditions coupled with its wide adoptability to all range of soil environment.