Overview
Lentils are a high-protein pulse, dried and then soaked and cooked before eating.
They vary in size and are sold in many forms – with or without skins, whole or split.
Canada is the largest exporter of lentils, selling to over 100 countries each year.
The most commonly grown lentils are large green "Laird" and red lentils.
Types of Red Lentils
- Whole Red Lentils: Deep orange-red, mild earthy flavor, soft texture, used traditionally as a meat substitute.
- Decorticated Whole Red Lentils (Footballs): Skins removed, inside portion intact, polished reddish-orange appearance.
- Split Red Lentils (Masoor, Mercimek): Skin removed, seed split into halves, popular for cooking worldwide.
Specifications - Whole Red Lentils
| Parameter | Requirements | Comments / Variation |
|---|
| Physical Characteristics | Hard and well filled | --- |
| Purity | 99% min. | Whole, defective lentils & seed coats |
| Moisture | 14% max | --- |
| Defective Seeds | 3-5% max | Broken, insect, mould, etc. |
| Foreign Material | 1% max | Soil, stones, metals, etc. |
| Screen Size | 2.0–2.2 mm | Below this considered defective |
Specifications - Split Red Lentils
| Parameter | Requirements | Comments / Variation |
|---|
| Physical Characteristics | Good color, clean bright | From well-filled seeds |
| Purity | 99.75% min. | Split & whole lentils, caps |
| Moisture | 14% max | --- |
| Foreign Material | 0.25% max | Soil, stones, seed coats |
| Poor Colour | 0.25% max | Brown, black, green, yellow lentils |
| Broken/Kibble | 5% max | Based on screen size |
| Field Insects | Nil tolerance | --- |
Packing Options
| Products | Packing | Container |
|---|
| Green Lentils | 25kg or 50kg PP Bags | 460 bags (50kg) or 920 bags (25kg) in 20'FCL |
Origin of Red Lentils
Canada: 22.3%
India: 12.37%
Australia: 3.9%
Turkey: 3.8%
Nepal: 2.5%
Nutrition Facts (per 100g)
Calories: 116
Protein: 9g (18%)
Fat: 0.4g
Carbs: 20g
Fiber: 8g (32%)
Iron: 18%
Magnesium: 9%
Potassium: 369mg (10%)
Health Benefits of Red Lentils
- Lowers Cholesterol: Rich in soluble fiber that reduces risk of heart disease & stroke.
- Heart Health: Source of folate & magnesium, improves circulation and lowers homocysteine levels.
- Digestive Health: Prevents constipation & supports gut health with insoluble fiber.
- Stabilizes Blood Sugar: Soluble fiber slows digestion, stabilizes glucose levels.
- Rich in Protein: Great plant protein source, especially for vegetarians/vegans.
- Boosts Energy: Complex carbs + iron support metabolism & oxygen transport.
- Supports Weight Loss: Low-calorie, high satiety food.