A Critical Analysis of Beans in Nigeria: Examining Social, Political, Economic,

Technological, Environmental and Gastronomic Factors

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Executive Summary
Food and gastronomy are an essential part of a country's identity and practices. In Nigeria, Beans
is one of the most common foods with implications in various facets of life. The purpose of this
report is to present a critical analysis of beans in Nigeria while taking into account social,
political, economic, environmental, technological, and gastronomic factors. Beans are an
important source of protein for many Nigerians, particularly those who cannot afford more
expensive sources of protein such as meat or fish. Beans are an essential component of Nigeria's
gastronomy and are used in many traditional dishes, including akara, moimoi, and ewa agonyin.
Beans also play an important role in Nigeria's political context, as the government has
implemented policies to increase the production and consumption of beans as a way to reduce
dependence on imported foods. Beans are also significant in Nigeria's economic context as they
are an important commodity that generates income for many farmers and traders. Beans have
specific environmental issues associated with its production, including the depletion of soil
nutrients and the use of pesticides and fertilizers. In Nigeria's technological context, beans are
being used in innovative ways, such as in gluten-free pasta, vegan and vegetarian dishes. They
have also contributed to technology innovation in irrigation and processing of the crop. Overall,
beans are an important and versatile ingredient in Nigeria's culinary heritage and play a
significant role in the country's social, economic, political, environmental, technological, and
gastronomic contexts.
 Table of Contents
Introduction......................................................................................................................................3

Political Context..............................................................................................................................4

Economic Context...........................................................................................................................6

Social Context..................................................................................................................................7

Environmental Context....................................................................................................................9

Technological Context...................................................................................................................10

Gastronomy....................................................................................................................................11

Conclusion.....................................................................................................................................12

List of References..........................................................................................................................13

List of Figures

Figure 1:Black-eyed beans..............................................................................................................5

Figure 2: Brown beans.....................................................................................................................5

Figure 3: Kidney beans....................................................................................................................5

Figure 4: Honey beans.....................................................................................................................6

Figure 5: Soya beans........................................................................................................................6

Figure 6: Beans Porridge...............................................................................................................12

Figure 7: Akara (Beans fritters).....................................................................................................12

Figure 8: Moin-moin (steamed beans)...........................................................................................13

Figure 9: Ewa agoyin ( boiled beans and pepper sauce)...............................................................13

Introduction
For any given country, its food and gastronomy bears significant importance. Food provides a
sense of identity, social bonding, economic importance, health, and well-being, and a sense of
belonging (Kittler et al. 2016). Owing to the importance of food and gastronomy in a given
country, the purpose of this report is to present a critical analysis of beans in Nigeria as one of
the most common food while taking into account social, political, economic, environmental,
technological, and gastronomic factors. Beans are a nutritious food that is widely consumed
around the world including in Nigeria. They are a type of legume and there are many different
varieties. For instance, some of the beans commonly eaten in Nigeria includes black-eyed beans,
brown beans, honey beans, kidney beans, and soyabeans .. Beans are a good source of protein,
fiber, vitamins, and minerals (Fageria and Santos 2008). They are a rich source of protein which
is essential for building and repairing tissues in the body. They are also high in fiber which
promotes digestive health and helps regulate blood sugar levels. Moreover, beans are rich in
essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, potassium, and folate (Messina 2014). Beans also
benefit from versatility. They can be cooked in a variety of ways making them a versatile
ingredient in many dishes. They can be boiled, fried, mashed, and stewed; also, they can be used
in soups, salads, casseroles, and side dishes (Agada and Igbokwe 2016). Lastly, in addition to
their nutritional composition, beans also hold a cultural significance in many societies across the
globe. In many cultures, beans are an important part of the local cuisine and are often associated
with traditional dishes and cultural celebrations. In Nigeria, for example, beans are used in a
variety of dishes, including akara, moimoi, and beans porridge (Abdulkareem et al. 2013). Thus,
beans are an important food due to their nutritional value, affordability, versatility, and
sustainability. Consequently, a critical analysis of this food commodity in Nigeria focusing on
the social, political, economic, environmental, technological, and gastronomy contexts reveals its
current utility to the nation and provides an opportunity to address challenges that hamper the
attainment of the food’s benefits to the population in the future.
Figure 1:Black-eyed beans

Figure 2: Brown beans

Figure 3: Kidney beans

Figure 4: Honey beans

Figure 5: Soya beans

Political Context
Food is an essential aspect of a country's political context. Firstly, it is an essential part of food
Security. One of the primary concerns of a country's political leaders is ensuring food security
for their citizens. Food security refers to the availability of sufficient, safe, and nutritious food
for all members of a society (Fasoyiro and Taiwo 2012). Governments often implement policies
and programs to promote food security, such as subsidies for farmers, food aid programs, and
agricultural development initiatives. Secondly, food is a significant commodity in international
trade and it can play an essential role in a country's foreign policy. Countries that are major
producers of certain crops or livestock may use their food exports as a diplomatic tool to
establish political alliances or exert influence over other countries (Nestle 2019). Thirdly, the
food industry can be a significant contributor to a country's economy, providing jobs and
generating revenue. Government policies and regulations can affect the growth of the food
industry, such as agricultural subsidies, import and export regulations, and food safety standards
(Takeshima and Liverpool-Tasie 2015). Lastly, food is often an essential part of a country's
cultural heritage, and promoting local cuisine can be an important aspect of cultural diplomacy.
Governments may support food festivals, promote traditional cooking methods, and protect local
culinary traditions to preserve their cultural heritage (Jackson et al. 2012).
Beans are an essential food and commodity in Nigeria and their production and trade play a
significant role in the country's political context. To begin with, it is an essential part of the
nation’s food security. Beans are an important source of protein and nutrients for many
Nigerians, particularly those on low incomes. The government has implemented policies to
promote bean production, such as providing subsidies for farmers, to ensure that there is
sufficient supply to meet the demand for this staple food (Takeshima and Liverpool-Tasie 2015).
Secondly, beans contribute to economic growth. Beans are a significant agricultural commodity
in Nigeria, and their production and trade contribute to the country's economy. The government
has implemented policies to support the growth of the bean industry, such as providing loans to
farmers and promoting the export of beans to international markets (Agada and Igbokwe 2016).
Thirdly, beans are a part of the nation’s international trade. Nigeria is one of the world's largest
producers of beans and the crop is a significant export commodity (Siddiq and Uebersax 2012).
The government has implemented policies to promote the export of beans, such as providing
incentives for exporters and negotiating favorable trade agreements with other countries. Lastly,
beans are essential to food price stability. Beans are a critical component of the Nigerian diet and
fluctuations in the price of beans can have a significant impact on the cost of living for many
Nigerians. The government has implemented policies to stabilize the price of beans, such as
implementing price controls and regulating the importation of beans to prevent oversupply. Thus,
beans are a crucial food and commodity in Nigeria with significant political implications.

Economic Context
Food is an essential component of a country's economic context. To begin with, Agricultural
production is a significant contributor to the economy of many countries, particularly in
developing countries. Food production is a critical component of agricultural production, and it
contributes to the Gross Domestic Product and employment in the country. The production of
food crops can help create jobs, generate income, and support rural development (Eme et al.
2014). Secondly, food is a significant commodity in international trade, and it can contribute to
a country's export earnings. Countries that are major producers of certain crops or livestock may
use their food exports as a means of earning foreign exchange and reducing trade deficits.
Additionally, international trade in food can provide access to a broader range of food products
and increase consumer choice (Vos et al. 2019). Thirdly, food influences consumer spending.
Food is a necessity, and therefore, it represents a significant portion of household spending. The
food industry contributes to the economy by creating jobs, generating income for workers, and
stimulating consumer spending. Increased consumer spending on food can have a multiplier
effect on the economy by increasing demand for other goods and services (Akerele 2015).
Lastly, food can contribute to tourism. Food and gastronomy can be an essential component of a
country's tourism industry. Countries can use their unique food culture as a means of promoting
tourism, attracting visitors, and generating revenue (Nwokorie 2015). In conclusion, food is an
essential component of a country's economic context.

Fig. 6. Production of soybean meal in Nigeria from 2010 to 2022(in 1,000 metric tons)
Beans are a significant food and commodity in Nigeria's economic context, and their production
and trade contribute to the country's economy in several ways. Firstly, beans are a significant
agricultural commodity in Nigeria and their production contributes to the country's agricultural
output. The production of beans supports the livelihoods of many farmers, particularly
smallholder farmers, and contributes to rural development (Agada and Igbokwe 2016). Secondly,
beans are among the country’s export earners. Nigeria is one of the world's largest producers of
beans and the crop is a significant export commodity. The export of beans generates foreign
exchange earnings for the country, which can be used to support economic growth and
development. According to Statista (2023), Nigeria produced 680 metric tons of beans in 2022
that contributed about 3% of the national GDP. Thirdly, beans are a staple food in Nigeria and
they represent a significant portion of household spending. The consumption of beans supports
the food industry, including the production, processing, and distribution of beans (Olalekan and
Bosede 2010). Lastly, beans contribute towards employment. The production and trade of beans
support the creation of jobs, particularly in the agriculture and food sectors. The bean industry
provides employment opportunities for farmers, farm workers, processors, traders, and other
actors along the value chain (Okoye and Oni 2017). In conclusion, beans are a critical food
commodity in Nigeria's economic context, with significant implications for agricultural
production, export earnings, consumer spending, and employment.

Social Context
Food is also an essential aspect of a country's social context. To begin with, it is an integral part
of a country's culture and tradition and it reflects the social and cultural values of a community.
The preparation and consumption of traditional foods are often associated with cultural
celebrations, festivals, and religious ceremonies, and they help to preserve and transmit cultural
heritage from one generation to the next (Aworh 2015). Secondly, food is often used as a symbol
of identity and belonging and it can help to foster social cohesion and unity. Sharing meals and
traditional foods with family and friends is a way of strengthening social bonds and building
relationships. Thirdly, Food plays a crucial role in promoting health and wellbeing in a country's
social context. Access to nutritious food is essential for maintaining good health, and it can
contribute to reducing the incidence of malnutrition and other diet-related illnesses. Lastly, food
can be a source of social innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in urban areas. The rise of
urban agriculture, community gardens, and food cooperatives are examples of social initiatives
that promote sustainable food production and distribution and contribute to social and
environmental sustainability (Abu and Soom 2016). In conclusion, food is a critical aspect of a
country's social context.
Beans are an important food and commodity in Nigeria's social context and they contribute to
several aspects of social development and wellbeing. One contribution is to the country’s cultural
identity. Beans are a traditional and staple food in many parts of Nigeria, particularly in the
northern regions of the country. The consumption of beans is associated with cultural identity
and tradition and it reflects the social and cultural values of the communities that produce and
consume it (Jackson et al. 2012). Secondly, beans contribute to nutrition and health. Beans are a
rich source of protein, fiber, and other essential nutrients, and they play a crucial role in
addressing malnutrition and promoting good health in Nigeria's social context. The consumption
of beans can contribute to reducing the incidence of diet-related illnesses such as obesity,
diabetes, and heart disease (Messina 2014). Thirdly, the production and trade of beans can be a
source of social entrepreneurship and innovation in Nigeria's social context. For example,
initiatives such as community-based agriculture, farmer cooperatives, and women-led bean
processing enterprises can promote social and economic empowerment and contribute to
sustainable development (Uebersax et al. 2022). In conclusion, beans are a vital food and
commodity in Nigeria's social context, reflecting cultural identity, promoting nutrition and health
and fostering social entrepreneurship.

Environmental Context
Food is an essential aspect of a country's environmental context. One way that food is important
to the environment relates to sustainable food production. Food production has a significant
impact on the environment including land use, water use, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Sustainable food production practices, such as agroforestry, conservation agriculture, and
organic farming, can help to reduce the environmental impact of food production and contribute
to environmental sustainability (Daniel and Celestina 2013). Secondly growing food contributes
to biodiversity. Food production and consumption can affect biodiversity, including the loss of
habitat, species extinction, and the depletion of genetic diversity (Blair et al. 2016). Preserving
biodiversity is critical for maintaining ecosystem services, such as pollination and soil fertility
that are essential for sustainable food production. Thirdly, the wastage and loss of food is
influential to the environment. Food waste and loss contributes to environmental problems such
as greenhouse gas emissions, water waste, and land deforestation (Blair et al. 2016). Reducing
food waste and loss through improved food storage and transportation, distribution, and
consumption can help to reduce the environmental impact of food production. Lastly food
product also has an impact on climate change. Climate change has significant implications for
food production, including changes in temperature, precipitation patterns, and extreme weather
events. Sustainable food production and consumption practices can help to mitigate climate
change and promote adaptation to its impacts. Thus, food is a critical aspect of a country's
environmental context, reflecting the impact of food production and consumption on land use,
water waste, greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity, food waste, and climate change.
Beans are an important food and commodity in Nigeria's environmental context, and they have
both positive and negative impacts on the environment. To begin with, beans contribute towards
sustainable food production. Beans can be grown using sustainable farming practices such as
intercropping, crop rotation, and integrated pest management (Daniel and Celestina 2013). These
practices can help to reduce the environmental impact of food production and contribute to
environmental sustainability. Secondly, growing beans contributes to biodiversity. Beans are a
source of genetic diversity and they play an essential role in preserving biodiversity in Nigeria's
agricultural landscape. By cultivating diverse varieties of beans, farmers can promote genetic
diversity and help to preserve local ecosystems. Thirdly beans promote soil health. Beans are a
leguminous crop meaning that they fix nitrogen in the soil. This reduces the need for synthetic
fertilizers, which can contribute to soil degradation and water pollution. The cultivation of beans
can help to improve soil health, increase soil fertility, and promote sustainable land use practices
(Daniel and Celestina 2013). Lastly, growing beans impacts water use. Beans are a low-water-
use crop, and they can be grown in regions with limited water resources. This makes them an
essential crop for regions with water scarcity, contributing to sustainable water management
practices. However, growing of beans in Nigeria has also contributed to environmental harm.
One of them is deforestation. The cultivation of beans has contributed to deforestation where
farmers clear forest land for farming. Secondly, the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers in
bean production can contribute to water pollution through leaching and runoff, affecting both
surface and groundwater quality (Daniel and Celestina 2013). Thus, it is recommend that future
and increased production limit the use of such chemicals. Nevertheless, beans remain a vital food
and commodity in Nigeria's environmental context.

Technological Context
Beans are also relevant in Nigeria's technological context. The development of technologies used
to grow and process the crop has changed significantly. To begin with, there have been improved
seed varieties. The development of improved bean seed varieties through research and
technology has helped to increase yields, improve pest and disease resistance, and enhance the
nutritional quality of beans (Mustapha et al. 2012). Secondly, post-harvest technology has also
progressed. Post-harvest losses are a significant problem in Nigeria's agricultural sector
including the bean production (Mustapha et al. 2012). Improved post-harvest technologies, such
as storage facilities, processing equipment, and packaging, have helped to reduce losses and
increase the value of the bean crop. Thirdly, improvements have also been evident in irrigation
technology. Irrigation is essential for bean production especially in areas with limited rainfall.
Advances in irrigation technology, such as drip irrigation and sprinkler systems, have helped to
conserve water resources and improve crop yields. Lastly, there have also been improvements in
food processing technology. Beans are a versatile food and can be processed into various forms,
including flour, paste, and tofu (Mustapha et al. 2012). Advances in food processing technology
have helped to increase the value of beans as a food commodity and improve their nutritional
quality. Thus, beans are important in Nigeria's technological context.

Gastronomy
Beans are a staple food in Nigeria and are an essential component of the country's gastronomy..
Firstly, they are important in traditional dishes. Beans are used in many traditional Nigerian
dishes, including bean porridge, akara (bean cakes), moimoi (steamed bean pudding, and ewa
agonyin (stewed beans). These dishes are an essential part of Nigeria's culinary heritage and are
enjoyed by people from all walks of life (Abdulkareem et al., 2013).

Figure 6: Beans Porridge

Figure 7: Akara (Beans fritters)

Figure 8: Moin-moin (steamed beans)

Figure 9: Ewa agoyin ( boiled beans and pepper sauce)
Secondly, beans are used in different ways in different regions of Nigeria. For example, in the
North, beans are often used to make a dish called moin moin, while in the South; they are more
commonly used in a dish called ewa agonyin. These regional variations reflect the diversity of
Nigeria's culinary traditions. Fourthly, Beans are also an important ingredient in Nigeria's street
food culture. Akara, for example, is a popular snack that is often sold by street vendors. These
street foods provide an affordable and convenient source of nutrition for many Nigerians
(Abdulkareem et al., 2013). Finally, beans are also being used in innovative ways in Nigeria's
culinary scene. For example, some chefs are using beans to make gluten-free pasta while others
are incorporating beans into vegan and vegetarian dishes (Abdulkareem et al., 2013). These
culinary innovations reflect Nigeria's dynamic food culture and its ability to adapt to changing
dietary needs and preferences. Thus, beans are an important and versatile ingredient in Nigeria's
gastronomy context.

Conclusion
Food and gastronomy are vital to the people living in a country. They influence the political,
economic, social, environmental, technological, and gastronomic context of the country. Bean is
one of the common foods grown and consumed in Nigeria. They are important due to their
nutritional value, affordability, versatility, and sustainability. In Nigeria’s political context, it
impacts issues such as food security, international trade, economic growth, public health, and
cultural heritage. In the economic context, it has implications for agricultural production, export
earnings, consumer spending, and employment. In the country’s social context, beans reflect on
the nation’s cultural identity, promote nutrition and health, and foster social entrepreneurship. In
terms of the environmental context, beans production impact consumption, soil health, water use,
biodiversity, and deforestation. Beans are also important in Nigeria's technological context as
they have contributed to the development of improved seed varieties, post-harvest technology,
irrigation technology, and food processing technology. Lastly, beans are an important and
versatile commodity in Nigeria's gastronomy context. They are an essential component of many
traditional dishes, provide important nutritional benefits, and are an affordable source of protein
for many Nigerians.

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