In celebration of the International Year of Pulses in Jamaica, patrons to the 2016 Agriculture show were treated to an interesting display from July 30 to August 1, 2016.

FAO’s booth primarily sought to introduce the term pulses to the Jamaican populace. Although many people were familiar with the plentiful individual beans and peas which belong to the grouping of pulses, they were not familiar with the term.

Posters displaying varied messages, such as What are Pulses?, Why are Pulses Important ? and Benefits of Pulses, were included to heighten awareness around 2016 as the International Year of Pulses.

In addition to the posters, brochures and fliers, a major booth highlight was the pulses display which showed a colourful variety of peas and beans available locally, ranging from red peas, gungo peas, and black beans to split peas. Patrons were also presented with recipe cards to provide additional meal preparation guidelines for some of their favourite pulses.

Overall, public feedback was positive and included ample appreciation of raising awareness of the many health, nutrition and climate change related benefits of pulses.

FAO’s display at the Denbigh Agriculture Show is one of many globally hosted activities to mark 2016 as the International Year of Pulses.