The USA Dry Pea and Lentil Council (USADPLC), headquartered in Moscow, Idaho, is a national non-profit organization established to represent the interests of U.S. dry pea, lentil, chickpea, and pulse crop growers, processors, exporters, and food manufacturers. Since its founding in 1965, the Council has been a driving force behind the expansion of the U.S. pulse industry, promoting domestic and international consumption through research, education, and market development.
Core Mission and Role
The USADPLC functions as a strategic marketing and advocacy body. It operates with the dual purpose of enhancing market opportunities for pulse producers and educating consumers and manufacturers about the nutritional and functional benefits of dry peas, lentils, chickpeas, and other pulses. The Council also works closely with federal agencies to shape policy, access funding for agricultural research, and expand trade opportunities.
Its activities are focused on:
- Domestic market promotion
- Export development
- Nutrition research
- Technical support for food product innovation
- Policy advocacy on behalf of growers and processors
Industry and Membership Scope
The USADPLC represents stakeholders across the entire U.S. pulse value chain, including:
- Over 1,000 growers across Montana, North Dakota, Idaho, and Washington
- Dozens of certified processors and exporters
- U.S.-based food companies that use pulse-based ingredients
- State grower commissions such as the Idaho Pea & Lentil Commission and Montana Pulse Crop Committee
The Council plays a central coordinating role, aligning research, market intelligence, and promotional resources for its members and trade partners.
Financial Strength and Government Partnerships
The USADPLC receives funding from:
- Member assessments
- USDA Market Access Program (MAP)
- USDA Foreign Agricultural Service (FAS)
- Public and private research grants
In 2022, the Council received over $4 million in federal export promotion funds, which were used to support marketing campaigns and trade missions across 25 countries. The organization also administers research and education programs in collaboration with universities and the USDA Agricultural Research Service (ARS).
Export Records and Market Development
According to USDA and trade data, the United States exported:
- Over 560,000 metric tons of dry peas
- More than 250,000 metric tons of lentils
- Nearly 180,000 metric tons of chickpeas
in the 2022–2023 marketing year. Key export destinations include India, China, the EU, Turkey, Colombia, and Canada. The USADPLC supports trade by hosting reverse trade missions, virtual buyer meetings, and international technical training for food manufacturers.
Target Market and Industry Support
The Council works with:
- Ingredient buyers and food manufacturers
- Nutritionists and dietitians
- Institutional foodservice providers
- Academic researchers and product developers
Their programs aim to expand pulse applications in:
- Plant-based meat and dairy alternatives
- Gluten-free and allergen-free formulations
- High-protein snacks and bakery items
- Global food aid and school meal programs
Research and Technical Expertise
The USADPLC funds and coordinates scientific studies in collaboration with:
- USDA-ARS
- North Dakota State University
- University of Idaho
- Washington State University
Research priorities include:
- Agronomic performance and crop rotation benefits
- Functional ingredient development (e.g., pea protein, starch, fiber)
- Clinical trials on pulse consumption and metabolic health
Key outcomes have helped validate the role of pulses in reducing blood sugar levels, improving gut health, and supporting sustainable agriculture.
Certifications and Compliance
Although not a manufacturer, the Council ensures its members and processors comply with:
- USDA Grade Standards for pulses
- Phytosanitary and export regulations
- Good Agricultural and Manufacturing Practices
The USADPLC also collaborates with global partners to align U.S. products with Codex and international food standards.
Global Recognition and Outreach
The Council plays a leadership role in international pulse promotion, contributing to initiatives such as:
- International Year of Pulses (2016) led by the United Nations FAO
- Co-founding of the Global Pulse Confederation
- Technical support for Pulse Canada and Pulse Europe
The USADPLC’s consumer-facing brand “USA Pulses” promotes American-grown pulses in global markets through online campaigns, chef partnerships, and social media outreach.
Major Achievements
- Instrumental in securing tariff reductions and phytosanitary access to India and China
- Increased U.S. pulse exports by more than 65% over the past decade
- Developed over 400 pulse-based product prototypes in partnership with food manufacturers
- Published dozens of peer-reviewed research articles on pulse nutrition and health benefits
- Launched the “Half-Cup Habit” campaign that reached over 10 million consumers
The USA Dry Pea and Lentil Council continues to lead the global charge in promoting sustainable, nutrient-rich pulses as foundational ingredients for future food systems.
