Project news Innovations in legume breeding: the future of sustainable and local varieties

The European legume breeding sector is undergoing rapid development with the aim of creating competitive varieties that are both economically attractive and environmentally friendly. The BELIS project, launched in October 2023, focuses specifically on developing cost-effective breeding techniques and improving the legal framework for breeding in Europe. This will lead not only to higher yields, but also to more robust varieties that are more resistant to climate change.

Legumes: a key role in agriculture and nutrition

Legumes, both for food and feed production, offer crucial benefits to agriculture. They are a rich source of protein for both humans and animals and contribute to soil fertility through symbiotic nitrogen fixation. However, cultivation of legumes in Europe has so far been limited by the lack of high-yielding, resistant varieties. This makes Europe heavily dependent on soy imports. The BELIS project aims to close this gap by working with partners from the breeding industry and research institutions.

Collaboration and innovation: the driving force behind success

Within BELIS, 34 partners from 18 countries are working together to improve breeding methods and increase crop resilience. The focus here is on 14 different legume species, including peas, field beans, soybean and lupin. Using the latest technologies, such as drones and spectral cameras, breeding programs are made more efficient. This helps growers gain rapid access to better adapted varieties that respond to local growing conditions.

Practical applications for growers

The ultimate goal of the project is to bring innovation in the breeding sector closer to reality. This means not only better varieties, but also improvements in variety registration processes so that farmers have faster access to the latest developments. In addition, work is underway to harmonize breeding trials across national borders so that growers are better informed about which varieties perform best in their specific conditions.

A sustainable future for European farming

With BELIS, an important step is taken toward greater protein autonomy in Europe. By focusing on local varieties with high yields and better drought and disease resistance, growers can contribute to a more sustainable and productive agricultural sector. Stakeholders from agriculture and horticulture are invited to join the BELIS network and actively contribute to the future of legume breeding in Europe.

For more information visit the BELIS website and subscribe to the BELIS newsletter.