Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas)

Why are Chickpeas important?

Chickpeas, also known as garbanzo beans, are versatile legumes with a mild, nutty taste that are high in protein and packed with fiber. This powdered legume is enjoying a rise in global popularity as a gluten-free alternative to wheat flour given it has far more vitamins and minerals and carries far fewer calories than wheat flour. It makes for a perfect binding ingredient in fritters and plant-based veggie burgers, as a thickener for sauces, soups and stews, for making flatbreads and in batter-based foods like pancakes and waffles. Chickpea powder is popular in Middle Eastern and Indian cooking to create classic dishes including falafel, hummus, papadums and pakoras.

Why is Chickpea Processing a challenge?

Processing chickpeas into powder poses several challenges. Chickpeas have a tough outer layer that needs to be removed to obtain a smooth powder, which can be a time-consuming and costly process. The high starch content of chickpeas also makes them susceptible to clumping during processing and storage, affecting the consistency and quality of the final product. Additionally, the high moisture content of raw chickpeas adds to transportation costs due to their bulkiness and inefficiency. Current processing methods for chickpea powder often rely heavily on the use of fossil fuels and heat, which can have negative environmental impacts. Finding more sustainable and efficient solutions for processing chickpeas into powder is crucial to reduce waste and meet the increasing demand for plant-based protein sources.

ADAR Solution
ADAR Technologies has conducted testing on chickpeas to develop a more sustainable solution for their processing. Our technology has successfully dried, pulverized, and sanitized chickpeas, resulting in a nutrient-rich output suitable for commercial applications. The output material is a finely milled, completely dry chickpea protein powder that is consistent with products available at food stores. Our innovative technology has also proven to significantly reduce the moisture content of chickpeas, making them easier to transport, and eliminate mold and mildew contamination without relying on heat or fossil fuels.