Germany's Pulse Boom: Why Canned and Dried Beans Are Winning Over Shoppers

The popularity of pulses in Germany has risen sharply over the past five years. Between 2021 and 2025, consumption grew by 15–20%, driven by plant-based diets and sustainability concerns. Canned beans saw the biggest increase, with sales jumping by around 25%, while dried beans rose by about 10%. Lentils and chickpeas also became firm favourites with shoppers.

Canned beans have become a go-to choice for many due to their convenience, long shelf life and low cost. They work well in quick meals but often contain higher sodium levels. However, rinsing and draining them before use can cut sodium by up to 40%. Some brands now offer no-salt or reduced-sodium options.

Both canned and dried beans share similar nutritional benefits, though canned varieties lose some water-soluble vitamins, like B vitamins, during processing. Both types can cause digestive discomfort because of oligosaccharides, a type of complex sugar. With canned beans, rinsing helps wash away some of these sugars, easing digestion.

Dried beans, meanwhile, need soaking before cooking to soften them and reduce oligosaccharides. Slow cooking also breaks down fibres, making them gentler on the stomach. Despite the extra prep time, dried beans remain a budget-friendly, fiber-rich staple.

The shift towards pulses reflects changing eating habits, with more people choosing plant-based and sustainable foods. Canned beans lead the trend thanks to their ease of use, while dried beans stay popular for their versatility and nutritional value. Both options provide an affordable, fiber-packed addition to meals.