Grain Legumes May Enhance High-Quality Food Production in Europe

At present high-quality protein-rich food sources are increasing to offer a sustainable alternative for the growing world population demand. Plant protein production favors biodiversity, environmental sustainability, and human health. The production of plant proteins is more cost-effective and resource-efficient compared to meat proteins since they are less exigent in terms of natural resources (nitrogen, water, etc.). The natural nitrogen fixation of legumes enriches soils and benefits cropping systems. Reducing red meat consumption and increasing consumption of protein from other sources could also increase health benefits. In this chapter we analyze the production and use of protein crops for human consumption and review their sustainability under Northern and Southern European environments.