In the 2024-25 growing season, Australia experienced a bountiful harvest of chickpeas, resulting in the second-largest crop ever recorded. This crop, estimated at 1.9 million tonnes by ABARES, solidifies Australia’s position as one of the world’s leading exporters of chickpeas. The increasing demand for chickpeas, driven by the South Asian diaspora and shifting global diets, presents a promising opportunity for the industry.
One particular area of interest is the potential for Australia’s fractionation industry to utilize chickpeas for plant-based protein production. This industry currently relies on soybeans, field peas, and faba beans, but chickpeas could offer a valuable alternative. Understanding how genetics, agronomy, and environmental factors influence protein levels in chickpeas is crucial for maximizing their potential in the plant-based protein market.
Researchers from CSIRO and the University of Tasmania have been studying the composition of chickpeas to prepare for potential shifts in market demand. Their findings, to be presented at the 2025 Grains Research and Development Corporation Goondiwindi Update by Dr. Sally Buck, shed light on the intricate relationship between genetics, growing conditions, and grain quality in chickpeas.
The research project involved characterizing a diverse panel of 240 chickpea varieties, including landraces, commercial cultivars, and breeding lines. These varieties were grown under controlled conditions, and their grain was analyzed for protein, sugar, starch, lipid, and fiber content. Genome-wide association studies were conducted to identify genetic markers associated with desirable traits, such as high protein content.
One key finding of the research was the significant variation in composition traits among different chickpea varieties. This variation was observed in both kabuli and desi-type chickpeas, indicating the potential to develop high-protein lines in both market classes. The identification of genetic markers associated with grain protein content opens up new opportunities for breeders to develop improved chickpea varieties tailored to specific market demands.
The study also delved into the proteome of Australian-grown chickpeas, revealing insights into the different types of storage proteins present in the seeds. Understanding the functional properties of these proteins can help differentiate Australian chickpea products in global markets and target them to specific consumer segments.
Furthermore, the research explored the impact of nitrogen fertilization on chickpea grain composition, highlighting the importance of agronomic practices in optimizing protein content. Field trials investigating the effects of different environmental conditions on chickpea grain quality are ongoing, providing valuable data for growers looking to produce crops tailored to market demands.
Overall, the research on chickpea composition and quality is paving the way for a more sustainable and profitable chickpea industry in Australia. By harnessing the insights gained from this study, growers and breeders can capitalize on the growing demand for plant-based protein and position Australian chickpeas as a valuable commodity in the global market.
