How Pulses get Proteins?
Pulses are a great source of protein for vegetarians and vegans. While plants primarily produce glucose through photosynthesis, pulses manage to obtain proteins through a different process. Let's delve into the details of how this happens.

Nitrogen Fixation
One key factor that enables pulses to obtain proteins is their ability to fix nitrogen. Pulses have a symbiotic relationship with certain bacteria, known as rhizobia, that reside in nodules on their roots. These bacteria have the unique ability to convert atmospheric nitrogen into a form that can be utilized by plants.

Protein Synthesis
Once the nitrogen is fixed by the rhizobia, the plant can utilize it to synthesize proteins. Proteins are made up of amino acids, and nitrogen is an essential component of these amino acids. The plant combines the nitrogen obtained from the rhizobia with carbon, hydrogen, and oxygen obtained from photosynthesis to produce proteins.

Rich Protein Content
Due to their ability to fix nitrogen, pulses have a higher protein content compared to many other plant-based foods. This makes them an excellent source of protein for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet. Pulses such as lentils, chickpeas, and beans are not only rich in protein but also provide essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
In conclusion, pulses are able to obtain proteins by harnessing the power of nitrogen fixation and utilizing this nitrogen to synthesize proteins. This unique ability sets pulses apart as a valuable source of plant-based protein.