Because they are so important, we’re not quite done with proteins…

Beans and peas are a unique food and a special source of protein.  They are mature forms of legumes and are an excellent source of plan protein as well as iron and zinc.  They are also considered part of the vegetable food group because they are an excellent source of dietary fiber, folate and potassium. 

Beans and peas are especially good protein sources not only because of their nutritional content but because they are generally lower in fat and cholesterol unlike some of the more common animal source of proteins like meat and cheese.