Our community researchers ask Brightonians “what are the bonuses & barriers to eating beans?”

Our team of Community Researchers are a key part of the National Food Systems Equality Project (FoodSEqual). The Community Researchers are connected to community food shops within less affluent communities in Brighton and Hove, and are working towards positive change for people’s day-to-day experiences of food.

Brighton residents told our Community Researchers that they want to eat more beans & pulses during workshops and focus groups about healthy, sustainable food ideas. The researchers investigated why this was and what barriers were currently stopping people from eating beans. The infographic below highlights the key themes participants shared when speaking about beans. This information will be important when developing appealing new products incorporating pulses.

Brighton residents told our Community Researchers that they want to eat more beans & pulses. But why? And what is stopping them? Here is what people told us about their relationships with beans: BEANS BONUSES 1. HEALTH & NUTRITION - Beans are energising, Low calorie, Low GI index, High in fibre. 2. AFFORDABILITY & ECONOMIC - People said beans should be the affordable and convenient option. 3. DIVERSE BEANS - It’s mentioned that people would like a locally grown bean but would also enjoy different varieties from other countries. BARRIERS TO BEANS 1. UNFAMILIARITY - Some people said they were unsure what to put beans in and were unsure of bean varieties. 2. BELIEFS & ASSUMPTIONS - “Beans beans good for the heart...” Frozen beans have sub par taste and quality. 3. SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE - Some people didn’t know how to plan, prepare and cook with different types of beans. Our team of Community Researchers are a key part of the UKRI funded Food Systems Equality Project (FoodSEqual)

Share this:

Subscribe to our newsletter

Receive exclusive discounts and updates on a wide range of food courses, events and community activities.

We use Brevo as our marketing platform. By clicking to submit this form, you acknowledge that the information you provided will be transferred to Brevo for processing in accordance with their terms of use

Search