[Congressional Record Volume 162, Number 46 (Wednesday, March 23, 2016)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E370]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          CELEBRATING 2016 AS THE INTERNATIONAL YEAR OF PULSES

                                 ______
                                 

                      HON. CATHY McMORRIS RODGERS

                             of washington

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, March 23, 2016

  Mrs. McMORRIS RODGERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate 2016 as the 
International Year of Pulses.
  I am extremely proud to represent the Pulse farmers of Eastern 
Washington. Eastern Washington is one of the most fertile agricultural 
areas in the nation and is proud to add pulses, namely dry peas, beans, 
lentils and chickpeas to crops which feed the world.
  Pulses are a low fat source of protein with a high fiber content and 
low glycemic index. They typically contain twice the amount of protein 
found in whole grain cereals, and in most developing countries comprise 
the main source of protein. Pulses are so nutrient-dense that 
nutritionists consider them both a protein and a vegetable.
  Pulses are rich in vitamins and minerals, providing consumers iron, 
potassium, magnesium, zinc, and are abundant with B vitamins. They 
contribute to a balanced diet, and have been shown to lower the risk of 
heart disease and diabetes, lower blood pressure and cholesterol. 
Pulses can also play an important role in mitigating the harmful 
effects of human exposure to heavy metals, including lead, in 
communities across the United States.
  In addition, according to conservative estimates, pulse crops provide 
thousands of production and manufacturing jobs in rural communities 
across the country. In the states of Washington and Idaho alone, 2015 
saw over 226 million pounds of dry peas, nearly 70 million pounds of 
lentils, and over 165 million pounds of chickpeas produced. Top chefs 
and households around the country are discovering these healthy, 
affordable, sustainable and delicious super foods.
  To help raise awareness of these crops, the United Nations declared 
2016 as the International Year of Pulses. Pulses will play a major role 
in meeting future food needs as the world's growing population, which 
is set to require a 70 percent increase in agricultural production by 
2050, because they are sustainable, nutritious, versatile, and 
affordable.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask that all of our colleagues join me in celebrating 
2016 as the International Year of the Pulses.

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