Cost of imported proteins see beans grow in popularity

Beans are a good source of energy and protein for animal feed, said Cara Mac Aodháin of the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, at the Teagasc bean production seminars held in December.

He said 3,900 hectares of beans were grown in 2013; the crop is gaining popularity partly because of the rising price of imported proteins (especially soya), and attractive forward contracts are being offered.

It’s also a good break crop. The Department of Agriculture re-commenced variety trials in 2012 after many years.