A faba bean is a type of broad bean that is also referred to as a fava bean, legume, or pulse crop. There are two main types of faba beans; tannin, and zero tannin. Those that contain tannin can be consumed only by humans, while those without tannin can be consumed by humans, and or livestock (Pearson, 2015). Tannin is a polyphenol compound distributed widely throughout the plant kingdom, and has recently been deemed more toxic versus anti-nutritional (Barbehenn & Constabel, 2011). When livestock consume to much of this compound it results in decreased protein utilization; this can lead to malnutrition even though the animal is being fed what it needs to remain healthy (Barbehenn & Constabel, 2011). The physical difference between these two types can be seen in flower color. Figure One shows a tannin faba bean that has black spots, while Figure Two shows zero tannin beans portraying no black spots.

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

​

 

 

 

 

When it comes to nutrients faba beans are a primary source of protein, starch, and fiber (Pearson, 2015). Table One pasted below shows a comparison between faba beans, soybeans, and peas. By observing this table, it is evident that the faba bean is a better source of these three key nutrients. This becomes an important factor when comparing faba beans to the other crops that Nepal might currently be growing. Considering that faba beans can be consumed by both human and livestock, the nutrients in these beans can be beneficial to the Nepalese people and their livestock, serving an overall dual purpose in the community. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Faba beans can be planted in dry or wet soils, they have one of the best nitrogen fixation abilities so they do not require a lot of fertilizer (Pearson, 2015). The ideal pH these beans thrive in is between 7.0 and 9.0, however they can tolerate any soil with a pH above 5.0 (Robinson & Raynes, 2010). A primary temperature for the best yield is between 15° and 20° C, however they can continue to grow well in any temperature ranging from -3° and 27° C (Robinson & Raynes, 2010). For the best results it is recommended to plant either in May or June, and harvest when the seed pods turn a dark brown, or black color (Robinson & Raynes, 2010). Harvesting in big quantities is best done with front head harvesters, however if machinery is not available the beans can also be harvested by hand (Robinson & Raynes, 2010).

 

By combining all of these features a faba bean is a simple crop that can be grown over long periods of time, in wide growing conditions, and is relatively easy to harvest. It has multiple nutrients that the Nepalese people and their livestock can benefit from, and when compared to other legumes or popular beans, the faba bean comes out on top in almost every nutritional component.