The National Dry Bean Council (US Dry Bean Council, USDBC) is a U.S.-based nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting the interests of the U.S. dry edible bean industry domestically and internationally. Its mission centers on advancing programs and projects that benefit the dry bean sector through research, education, and dissemination of information.

Overview

The USDBC acts as the voice of the U.S. dry bean industry by representing the sector’s interests primarily to the federal government, including the U.S. Congress and the Department of Agriculture. The organization engages in advocacy related to legislative and regulatory matters such as the U.S. Farm Bill and trade policies impacting the bean industry. It helps secure export development funds from the U.S. government which are then used to implement promotional campaigns aimed at expanding global markets for U.S.-grown dry beans[1][2][3][4].

Roles and Activities

• Represents the U.S. dry bean industry in governmental affairs, legislative processes, and regulatory issues.
• Applies for and manages U.S. government export development funds to promote U.S. dry beans in more than 15 countries.
• Conducts marketing and export promotion activities without directly participating in the buying or selling of products.
• Supports overseas market development via collaborations with international representatives located in key countries such as France, Spain, Japan, Thailand, and Mexico.
• Provides information and education to consumers, health professionals, buyers, suppliers, and media about the nutritional value, versatility, and taste of dry beans.
• Collaborates with public health organizations, research institutions, universities, and the supply chain on initiatives related to nutrition, food aid, sustainability, and trade[1][2][5].

Sustainability and Agricultural Impact

The National Dry Bean Council highlights the environmental benefits of dry bean cultivation, including:

• Beans' nitrogen-fixing properties enhance soil fertility and extend farmland productivity.
• Intercropping with pulses improves farm biodiversity and creates diverse habitats for wildlife.
• Beans require significantly less water compared to other protein sources, supporting water-efficient agriculture.
• Dry bean species exhibit broad genetic diversity, offering potential for breeding climate-resilient varieties.
• Overall, dry beans contribute to lowering greenhouse gas emissions by producing a smaller carbon footprint[5].

Conclusion

Through advocacy, marketing, research, and education, the National Dry Bean Council plays a crucial role in advancing the interests of U.S. dry bean producers. By promoting the consumption and export of dry beans, the Council supports agricultural sustainability, economic growth within the sector, and provides health and environmental benefits associated with bean production and consumption[1][2][4][5].