Punjab promotes traditional legumes as premium exports at Paris food summit

Punjab's government has taken a significant step to internationalize its traditional food products, launching two heritage legume items at one of Europe's largest food trade shows. Chickpeas in brine and red kidney beans—staples of North Indian cuisine—have been selected as flagship offerings under the Sohna brand at SIAL Paris 2026, a major platform for food industry professionals and retailers.

Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann's initiative reflects Punjab's broader strategy to leverage its agricultural strengths and establish a footprint in premium global markets. The move comes as Indian food exports face increasing competition, with producers seeking to add value through branding and positioning traditional items as specialty products for international consumers.

The Sohna brand, positioned as a quality-focused label, aims to differentiate these legumes in European and other foreign markets where Indian food products have seen growing demand. Chickpeas and red kidney beans, both protein-rich staples cultivated extensively across Punjab, have significant domestic and export value in Indian agriculture.

The participation in SIAL Paris underscores efforts by Punjab's administration to support agribusiness and help producers access international distribution channels. Such food exhibitions serve as critical networking platforms where suppliers connect with importers, distributors, and major retail chains seeking to stock specialty food products from emerging markets.

Photo: Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann in Seoul, December 2025. Embassy of India, Seoul, via Wikimedia Commons (GODL-India).