Improve protein self-sufficiency through pulse crops

Pulse crops like faba beans and peas enhance agricultural protein self-sufficiency by fixing atmospheric nitrogen through Rhizobium symbiosis, reducing reliance on synthetic fertilisers and imported feeds. They improve soil fertility, support crop rotation, boost biodiversity, and stimulate soil microbial activity. Faba beans provide ~300 g/kg DM crude protein and 430 g/kg DM starch; peas offer ~230 g/kg DM protein and 500 g/kg DM starch. High rumen degradability supports microbial protein synthesis but may increase nitrogen losses if dietary protein is excessive. Preservation via crimping or drying enables cost-effective feeding. Faba beans fix 50–100 kg N/ha/year; peas 40–80 kg N/ha/year. Successful integration includes growing pulses with cereals and ensiling them. The project is funded under Horizon 2020, grant agreement No 101000770.