Pulse Research

Understanding pulse quality

For their versatility and nutrition, pulse crops grown in Canada are in demand domestically and internationally. But their end-use qualities are yet to be defined, measured, and understood. The GRL's Pulse Research team is dedicated to studying how pulse seed quality characteristics are related to the quality of end-use pulse products. We are developing universally accepted methods for measuring and assessing pulse quality. Research also focuses on the role that variety and environment play in determining pulse quality and composition. The aim of Pulse Research is to assist Canada in marketing high quality peas, lentils, chickpeas and beans for food and feed worldwide.

Research

The primary objective of the Pulse Research team is to provide insights into the factors that affect the quality of Canadian pulse crops. This includes understanding how environmental and genetic factors influence biochemical components and end-use quality. It also involves researching and developing new methods for measuring and assessing pulse end-use quality. The team is participating in the development of a Canadian database on the chemical composition and nutritional and functional characteristics of Canadian pulses.

We carry out quality monitoring programs such as harvest surveys for Canadian pulse crops. The surveys are important tools for marketing Canada's pulses to both international and domestic markets.

Methods and standards

Where applicable, we use internationally accepted methods including the Official Methods of Analysis of AOAC INTERNATIONAL and those of the American Association of Cereal Chemists (AACC) and the International Organization for Standardization (ISO). Because there are few established methods for measuring pulse composition and end-use quality, we are collaborating with researchers worldwide in developing common methods.

Experience and expertise

The Pulse Research team is represented on the Pulse and Special Crops Subcommittee of the Prairie Registration Recommending Committee for Grain. As participants in programs of the Canadian International Grains Institute, we learn about customers' quality requirements and establish contacts with buyers, marketers, producers and processors. The team is also represented on the International Pulse Quality Committee; AACC's Technical Committee on Pulse and Grain Legumes; and on the Canadian Advisory Committee to ISO's Subcommittee on Cereals and Pulses.

To find out more about our staff, their research and area of expertise, read the biographies for:

Ning Wang, Program Manager, Pulse Research