The Mighty Chickpea
The Mighty Chickpea
by Claire Allen, RD
When you first think of chickpeas, it is likely that hummus comes to mind. Recent data from Business Wire indicates, however, that the chickpea market is poised to grow by USD 3.5 billion dollars from 2018-2022. This legume has been making its mark as a healthy snack as part of a plant-based diet, rich in protein, fiber, folate, zinc and iron. What’s more, chickpeas are not a major food allergen and appeal to those following a gluten free diet. Here are some major chickpea trends that you will find on the market:
Pasta and Rice: Banza® is one of the fasted selling pasta brands in Whole Foods and Target. The pasta is made with 90% chickpeas with added tapioca, pea protein and xanthan gum. One 3.5 oz serving of pasta contains 22 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber, nearly 2-3x of the amount of these nutrients found in traditional pasta.
Crunchy Snacks: Hippeas® Organic Chickpea Snacks offer a variety of flavors in puffs or chips. The Hippeas® Chickpea Puff Snacks contain on average 4 grams of protein and 3 grams of fiber per serving. For individuals with allergies, these are gluten free, vegan, nut free and soy free.
Chickpea “Fish”: Good Catch company provides plant-based “fish sticks, crab cakes and tuna” products. 3.3 oz “tuna” provides a whopping 18 grams of protein with only 120 calories and 2.5 grams of fat.
Legume Butter: Field Trip company offers chickpea butter in flavors classic, chocolate and cinnamon churro. This may appeal to individuals with nut allergies. One serving (2 tbsp) of the Classic flavor contains 5 grams of protein and 4 grams of fiber, with only 11 grams of fat.
Interested in learning more about how to incorporate plant-based foods into your diet?
Schedule an appointment with one of registered dietitians to learn more at 224-407-4400 or at www.compgihealth.com. #chickpeas #plantbaseddiet