Due to the changed eating habits of many people, protein-rich plant foods are playing an increasingly important role. Lupins, and only the sweet lupins, are considered to be the protein source of the future. More and more farms are relying on the large-scale cultivation of lupins.

Sweet lupine - the alternative to soy

The demand for plant-based foods containing protein is constantly increasing. After soy was rejected by many vegetarians because of the genetic modifications, producers resort to lupins.

However, only the sweet lupine is used for large-scale cultivation. This plant should not be confused with the popular perennial plant in the garden.

Sweet lupins, of which there are yellow, white and blue varieties, no longer contain any toxins thanks to breeding. The ornamental plants, on the other hand, are poisonous and must not be eaten under any circumstances.

Grow sweet lupins in your own garden

In general, sweet lupins can also be planted in your own garden. The demands on care are the same as those of ornamental lupins.

Growing sweet lupins for your own consumption is only worthwhile if there is enough space in the garden. If there are children in the house, the non-toxic sweet lupins can be a good alternative to the poisonous ornamental plant.

Sweet lupins are only suitable to a limited extent as ornamental plants, since they were primarily bred for the seeds and the flower does not play a major role.

Advantages of growing lupins instead of soy

There are several points in favor of growing sweet lupins for protein supply:

  • Grows on poor soil
  • Needs little maintenance
  • Is profitable
  • Is largely disease resistant
  • Is tasteless

The blue lupine in particular is cultivated in Germany for food production. It has proven to be disease resistant to viruses. The cultivation of yellow and white lupins, on the other hand, has almost come to a standstill.

Lupins in animal feed

Meanwhile, the blue sweet lupine is often used as a substitute for soy meal in pig feeding. Studies have shown that this type of feeding is particularly worthwhile in areas where the soil is poor and sandy.

tips and tricks

Lupine flour can be used just like soy flour without affecting the taste. There is even a tofu substitute made from lupins. It is sold in specialist shops under the name Lupino.

Category:

Herbs