Lentils.org is actively working to increase the awareness and consumption of delicious and nutritious lentils in North America. With a specific focus on the foodservice industry and working with the innovative thought leaders in the commercial foodservice sector, Lentils.org looks forward to working with you to advance menu innovation using lentils as your go-to source of plant protein on your menus.
Lentils are an affordable ingredient tool to carry global flavors while promoting health-forward tactics across the menu and dayparts, capitalizing on current and emerging consumer trends. Our team can help capture market demand and consumer interest – partner with us in your menu development and receive culinary expertise and menu ideation, consumer insights and market research, and marketing launch support.
Health & Nutrition
High in protein and fiber, lentils are an economical and sustainable source of plant-based protein. In a ½ cup cooked serving of lentils there is 12 grams of protein and 8 grams of fiber. This combination of protein and fiber results in the satiating effect of lentils which works to curb hunger, keeping your consumers full and satisfied for longer and providing steady, long-burn energy. Read more about how lentils provide good nutrition by clicking here.
Sustainability
Lentils, as well as other pulses, use less fertilizer and improve soil health by fixing nitrogen back into the soil during the growing process. Lentils and other pulses also have a low carbon footprint, are resilient in the face of climate change, and require relatively low water inputs. Lentils.org is proud to work on behalf of growers who are committed to sustainable agricultural practices and respecting the environment. Read more, download our sustainability fact sheet, and watch our video about how lentils are grown by clicking here.
RESOURCES:
Foodservice Cheat Sheet Kitchen Poster – print and hang this helpful resource in your kitchens as a foolproof aid to consistently cooked lentils every time + flavor-building strategies for tastier lentils.
Lentils.org Learning Hub – a free, online, self-paced course designed by and for foodservice chefs to learn more about lentils including how to cook them, why they are healthy and sustainable, and how to apply them all across the menu with skill building videos and culinary demonstrations. *ACF CEH available
Foodservice Recipes & Menu Inspiration – recipes written by foodservice chefs, for foodservice chefs utilizing commercial foodservice equipment and designed for easy scaling.
Innovative Ways to Put Lentils on the Menu – Explore the top five reasons chefs love lentils and the top applications to feature them on your menu.
Labor-Saving Techniques with Lentils – With limited staff and resources, utilizing ingredients that require less labor while also providing menu versatility may seem like an impossible feat. There are some ingredients, like lentils, that can work double duty for you, making at least one thing easier in the kitchen. Below are three reasons why lentils can be your labor-saving solution.