Food holidays on July 3

United States·July 3 2026

National Eat Your Beans Day

The history of beans as a dietary staple dates back over 7,000 years, making them one of the oldest cultivated plants. Beans are originally from wild vines in Central and South America, known as the common bean, and have evolved into thousands of varieties cultivated worldwide. The ancient Egyptians even honored beans by including them in the provisions for the afterlife. Throughout history, beans have been a source of nourishment, even during challenging times like the Great Depression and world wars. There are approximately 40,000 bean varieties, but only a fraction of them are cultivated for consumption. Some of the most common varieties include garbanzo, lima, soy, green, white, black, pinto, kidney, and navy beans, as well as black-eyed peas. These nutrient-packed legumes offer numerous health benefits, including being a rich source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They are particularly important for vegetarians due to their protein content. Today, beans are used in a wide range of dishes, from soups and casseroles to hummus and more. As the world embraces flexitarian and plant-based diets, beans are gaining popularity for their role in weight management, heart health, affordability, and shelf stability. They can be enjoyed in both savory and sweet recipes, making them a versatile addition to any diet.