Nutritional contents of common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris L.) landraces in comparison to modern varieties

For food security and healthy food supply, beans (Phaseolus spp.) have considerable significant sources of protein, carbohydrates, vitamins and minerals especially for poor peoples in the world. They are also rich in unsaturated fatty acids such as linoleic and oleic acids. From the past to the present, a large number breeding studies to increase yield of beans especially common bean (P. vulgaris L.) have been resulted in registration of many modern varieties but quality and flavor traits in the modern varieties have been almost ignored. Prior to the present study, nutritional contents of common bean landraces were not compared with the modern varieties. The present study was therefore aimed at comparing protein, fat and fatty acids and some mineral contents such as selenium (Se), zinc (Zn) and iron (Fe) of landraces to modern varieties. The landraces had higher mineral contents especially Se and Zn, oleic acids and protein than those of modern varieties. The landraces are grown for dual uses such as both of dry seed and snap bean production by farmers in small holdings and commercialized with higher cash price. In conclusion, landraces of common bean are not only the treasures that need to be transferred to the future but also important genetic resources that can be used in the bean breeding programs.