Ferrina Bean: Bringing Nutrition, Local Production and Food Security Together

Ferrina Bean: Bringing Nutrition, Local Production and Food Security Together

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A biofortified bean variety, Ferrina, with enhanced nutritional value was showcased on 20 August 2026 during a Field Day held at Réduit, bringing together students, farmers and stakeholders from the agriculture and nutrition sectors.

Ferrina contains significantly higher levels of iron than the locally cultivated Red Pearl bean, with 106 mg/kg compared with 60 mg/kg, while also providing zinc, protein and dietary fibre. Its nutritional profile makes it a promising crop for supporting healthier diets, particularly in the context of micronutrient deficiencies and anaemia. Developed by the International Center for Tropical Agriculture (CIAT), Ferrina has been recommended by FAREI for cultivation in Mauritius since 2019.

The Field Day highlighted the research undertaken to identify nutritionally enhanced bean varieties suited to local conditions. Through collaboration with CIAT, 217 bean varieties were introduced and evaluated, with Ferrina identified among the biofortified varieties showing promise under local conditions. Yields of around 10 to 12 tonnes per hectare as “haricot pale” and 1.5 to 2 tonnes as seeds have been recorded while local production increased from approximately 10 tonnes in 2020 to 36 tonnes in 2025.

Beyond production, emphasis was placed on developing markets for Ferrina and increasing awareness of its nutritional value among consumers. With Mauritius importing substantial quantities of pulses, increased local production of suitable crops can also contribute to reducing dependence on imports and strengthening food and nutrition security.

The Field Day was attended by the Minister of Agro-Industry, Food Security, Blue Economy and Fisheries, Dr Arvin Boolell; Junior Minister Mr Gilles Fabrice David; Chief Executive Officer of FAREI, Dr Madhvee Madhou; representatives of partner institutions and other stakeholders. The event was organised by FAREI in collaboration with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), in partnership with the SADC Secretariat, under the Food and Nutrition Component of the Support Towards the operationalisation of the SADC Regional Agricultural Policy Phase II (STOSAR II) Project, funded by the European Union.

Addressing participants, Minister Boolell stressed the importance of agricultural innovation and greater self-sufficiency in food production, encouraging farmers to adopt biofortified varieties such as Ferrina and urging the population to “produce what you eat and eat what you produce.” Junior Minister David highlighted the opportunity provided by the Field Day to showcase Ferrina’s agronomic performance, yield potential and nutritional benefits, while encouraging young people to take an interest in sustainable agriculture. Dr Madhvee Madhou reiterated FAREI’s commitment to promoting nutrient-rich crops and encouraging the adoption of biofortified varieties as part of efforts to strengthen food and nutrition security.

The event also featured a presentation on micronutrient deficiencies in Mauritius by a representative from the Ministry of Health and Wellness, the launch of a Ferrina flyer and recipe book, along with the distribution of seed samples and information kits to participants.