Nutrient Composition, Protein Quality, and Sensory Properties of Thirty‐Six Cultivars of Dry Beans ( Phaseolus vulgaris L.)

Thirty‐six cultivars representing eight types of dry beans ( Phaseolus vulgaris L) were analyzed chemically for content of moisture, fat, ash, total nitrogen, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, thiamin, riboflavin, and amino acids. Protein quality was evaluated using Tetrahymena pyriformis W. Cooked beans were subjected to sensory evaluation and shear‐force measurement. Nutrient concentrations were similar to values reported by earlier investigators. Protein quality ranged from 60% (Red Kidneys) to 90% (Pintos) that of casein. Pintos Nodak and Fiesta and Hyden Navy beans were most acceptable in flavor and texture; Bonus Small White was least acceptable. Cooperation between bean breeders and nutritionists will enable early screening of segregating hybrid populations for desirable nutritional and sensory qualities.