National Bean Day

A joyful child dressed as a bean, wearing a chef's hat, surrounded by beans in a cozy kitchen.. — National bean day illustration

Beans, beans, the magical fruit, you know how the rest of this well verse children's rhyme goes! Except January 6th isn't just a normal day for beans. On this day, we celebrate the humble, yet powerful, bean during National Bean Day. We dedicate this day to the tiny edible seeds that have fueled civilizations, been flung by catapults, and stirred countless debates over the best recipe.

When is Bean Day?

It's national bean day on the 7th January.

A Pod-full of History

Mark your calendars! National Bean Day has been observed since the early 2000s. While the internet-sphere is filled with various theories about its origins, the most popular account traces back to the famous geneticist, Gregor Mendel, who used bean plants for his hereditary experiments. The day intentionally coincides with Mendel’s January 6th birthday as a nod to his groundbreaking work.

Beans Take the Internet on 07 Jan 2018

On some days, beans just demand the spotlight. The 07th of January, 2018 was that day. The internet buzzed with about 7,733 online mentions of National Bean Day. Social media platforms were swollen like a bean soaked overnight with bean-centric posts, recipes, and memes to honor this day.

Bask in Beany Wonders

National Bean Day isn’t just about cooking pots of beans, although that is certainly a tasty part of it. It’s a chance to celebrate the many ways beans enrich our lives - their nutritional benefits, the biodiversity they represent, the farmers who grow them, and the cuisines they inspire. So whether it's refried, baked, or in a stew, let's raise a spoon to the humble bean!

History behind the term 'Bean'

4000 BC

Ancient Farmland Origins

Beans have been cultivated since ancient times, primarily as a food source. Extensive bean cultivation has been traced back to approximately 4000 BC in Peru, where they were an important staple crop for the ancient Andean civilizations. The early cultivation of beans suggests their significance in human history and their value as a versatile food source.

1550

European Introduction

The term 'bean' found its way into the English language in the mid-16th century. It was introduced by English explorers and traders who encountered the legume during their journeys to the New World. These explorers witnessed the native cultivation of beans by Indigenous Americans in regions such as Central and South America. Over time, the term 'bean' became widely used in English to refer to a variety of legumes.

1898

Heinz Baked Beans

In 1898, the famous American food company, H.J. Heinz, introduced their iconic product, Heinz Baked Beans. These canned beans gained immense popularity and became synonymous with baked beans around the world. The introduction of Heinz Baked Beans helped solidify the term 'bean' as a common culinary term, associated particularly with legumes served in savory dishes.

1976

Boston Baked Beans

In 1976, the term 'Boston Baked Beans' gained cultural prominence when it was used as the name of a popular candy. These candy-coated peanuts were made to resemble the traditional slow-cooked, molasses-flavored dish called 'Boston Baked Beans.' This confectionery adaptation of the term 'bean' showcased its flexibility, extending beyond the realm of food and into the realm of popular culture.

2000s

Bean as an Internet Slang

Over the years, the term 'bean' has also evolved into a slang term in internet culture. The word 'bean' is often used as a playful and affectionate way to refer to someone, particularly a friend. This usage has gained popularity on social media platforms and online communities, further expanding the cultural significance and versatility of the term.

Did you know?

Did you know that beans have been cultivated by humans for 6,000 years? From ancient Egyptians to modern foodies, beans have always been more than just musical fruit!