Consumption Trends and Eating Context of Lentils and Dried Peas in the United States: A Nationally Representative Study

Abstract

Background: Incorporation of lentils and dried peas could form the basis of a nutrient-rich diet; yet, they are among the least-consumed legumes in the United States (US). The objective of this study was to examine the prevalence of lentils/dried peas consumption in the US over time and across socio-demographic groups, as well as to examine the eating context of these foods. Methods: Analyses included adults (aged 18 years or older) and children (aged 3–17 years) participating in National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2003–2004 through 2017–2018. Participants consuming lentils/dried peas on one or both of the 24-h dietary recalls were categorized as consumers. Results: Although an increasing time trend in prevalence of consumption was observed over the study period, prevalence of lentils/dried peas consumption was less than 7% in NHANES 2017–2018 in adults and children. Demographic differences were observed, such that a greater proportion of non-Hispanic Asians were classified as consumers. Lentils/dried peas were primarily obtained from grocery stores and supermarkets. Conclusions: Although there are signs of rising acceptance of dried peas and lentils, the low prevalence of lentils/dried peas consumption suggests that understanding barriers to consumption of these foods could further identify opportunities to improve their consumption.