Peruvian Popping Beans: Breeding and Performance Data of Beans Cultivated in the U.S.

Nuña beans (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) are a class of common beans found in South America. They are grown in the mountainous areas of Peru, Ecuador and Bolivia. Nuña beans are unique because of their ability to “pop” after being exposed to heat. This produces a toasted edible snack that is soft-textured. Nuña bean preparation has reduced requirements for cook time and for fuel making them more energy-efficient compared to other types of dry beans. Scientists have been working to remove the photoperiod-sensitive gene that is found in traditional nuña beans, while at the same time retaining the popping trait for cultivation in the U.S. to be possible. Evaluation of popping bean field performance data, greenhouse performance data, and popping protocols and characteristics of beans cultivated in the U.S. will (1) increase awareness of popping beans as a nutritious source of both protein and dietary fiber as well as an alternative dry bean market class and (2) contribute to knowledge about factors that impact consumption of dry edible beans.