Ingredient

Bean

Auto-generated content. This description was generated automatically and is pending editorial review. Inaccuracies are possible. Found a mistake? Contact us.

Source
Not animal-derived
Allergen
No
Role in food
Beans are commonly consumed as a whole food, often as a side dish or …

What it is

Beans are the edible seeds of plants in the legume family. They grow inside pods and come in many varieties, such as kidney, black, pinto, and lima beans. Beans are a good source of protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.

Why it's used

Beans are commonly consumed as a whole food, often as a side dish or main ingredient in dishes like chili or salads. In processed foods, they can be used as a source of protein and fiber, or processed into flours and starches for use in baked goods and snacks.

Health notes

Beans are a nutritious food, recognized for their health benefits in dietary guidelines. JECFA has evaluated beans and found them to be safe for consumption. Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort due to their fiber content, but this is generally not a concern at typical intake levels.

Allergen info

Beans are not one of the nine FDA major allergens. They do not contain gluten.

Products containing Bean

Compare products →

Last updated: September 28, 2026

Note: This site presents label data from USDA FoodData Central for general information. It is not medical advice. Check the package label; formulations change.