Pulses and Mineral Bioavailability in Low Income Countries

Pulse crops are important sources of nutrients in low income countries (LIC). Not only do they provide good sources of proteins when mixed with cereals, but they also contain good to very good sources of key minerals such as iron, zinc and calcium. These minerals are important for growth and development of children as well as women’s health. Pulses, however, contain phytate and polyphenols, and these can bind to divalent minerals and prevent absorption, thus limiting bioavailability. Home processing methods of soaking, germination and fermentation can reduce the effects of phytate and polyphenols.