Legume consumption among Israeli adults: results from a national health and nutrition survey

Purpose: Substantial health and environmental benefits of legume consumption are reflected in dietary recommendations worldwide. However, data regarding legume intake are limited, particularly in Mediterranean countries. This study aimed to estimate and characterize legume consumption in the Israeli population. Methods: This cross-sectional study used data from the Israeli Health and Nutrition Survey (2014–2016), a nationally representative sample of the population aged 18–64 years. A personal, face-to-face interview was conducted in the interviewee’s home using a structured comprehensive questionnaire. Single 24 h dietary recalls (n = 2808) were evaluated to identify legume consumers, including quantity and type of legumes consumed. Consumers were defined as respondents who reported intake of any amount of legumes (beans, lentils, peas and soy) or legume-containing products. Demographics, health conditions, and lifestyle habits were compared between legume consumers and non-consumers. Multivariable logistic regression identified factors associated with being a legume consumer. Results: Legumes were consumed by 31.1% of respondents. Median (interquartile range) daily legume intake among consumers was 40.8g (20.4–74.0), equivalent to ~ 0.25 cup per day. Chickpeas were most commonly consumed (67.0%), followed by lentils (14.5%) and dry beans (12.2%). Legume consumers were less likely to have chronic comorbidities [OR 0.54 (95% CI 0.37-0.78)], and more likely to be male [OR 1.41 (95% CI 1.2-1.65)] and born in Israel [OR 1.24 (95% CI 1.01-1.51)]. Conclusions: Legume consumption among Israeli adults was substantially below current guidelines. Further studies evaluating legume consumption worldwide and specifically in Mediterranean countries are needed, alongside public health strategies promoting legume consumption as part of healthy, sustainable dietary patterns.