{
  "id": 4004049,
  "title": "Britons turn to pulses to save money and boost food quality",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/08/28/britons-turn-to-pulses-to-save-money-and-boost-food-quality",
  "topic": "business",
  "section": "Business",
  "published": "2026-08-28T17:39:23.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Ajel English",
    "slug": "ajel-english",
    "url": "https://english.ajel.sa/lifestyle/gg3rjce86"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "A recent study reveals that British consumers are opting for pulses and soy products to reduce expenses and enhance food quality. According to the Guardian, sales of these items in the UK increased by 7.3% during the first half of 2026 compared to the same time last year. The surge in demand was primarily fueled by a 23% rise in the purchase of affordable dried lentils.\n\nThe Guardian further noted that sales of premium pulses, such as organic varieties and those sold in glass jars, also climbed. Canned and jarred white beans experienced a significant surge, with sales jumping by 30.3% as shoppers embraced beans, lentils, and tofu while reducing meat consumption and plant-based meat alternatives. However, baked bean sales declined by 1.2%, mostly due to a drop in sausage-flavored varieties.\n\nThe analysis suggested that while plant-based protein sales remain steady, consumers are gravitating towards simpler, high-fiber alternatives that are less susceptible to price hikes. Simultaneously, demand for plant-based meat alternatives has fallen by 4.3% due to reduced demand for soy, pea, and wheat protein products. The study highlighted that consumers are not giving up plant-based proteins but are switching to more straightforward, fiber-rich choices that are less prone to price fluctuations.\n\nAs the cost of meat, particularly beef and lamb, continues to rise by 1.8%, sales of these meats have decreased. This dietary change is part of a campaign to double pulse consumption in Britain by 2028, backed by celebrity chefs and major companies. The Food Foundation has praised pulses as a \"win-win\" solution for health, the environment, and the economy. Notably, Lidl stores have reported a staggering 694% increase in plant-based food sales since 2020.",
  "summary": "A new analysis shows UK sales of pulses and soy products rose 7.3% in early 2026, as consumers seek affordable, healthier food options.",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}