Legume Research
Web of Science
  • Year: 2025
  • Volume: 48
  • Issue: 3

Exploring Lupins in China: Insights into Cultivation and Challenges for Sustainable Agricultural Development: A Review

1School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Yeosu Campus, Chonnam National University, Republic of Korea

*Corresponding Author: Se-Jung LIM, School of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Yeosu Campus, Chonnam National University, Republic of Korea, Email: limsejung@chonnam.ac.kr, ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3249-495X

Online Published on 18 July, 2025.

Abstract

Lupin beans, a nutritious legume, are gaining popularity as a sustainable alternative protein source for both humans and animals, offering potential benefits over traditional options like soybeans. This review paper aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the present status of lupin cultivation, production and research in China. Through a systematic examination of recent literature, we analyze the cultivation practices, production trends and advancements in lupin research within the Chinese context. Lupins, originating from the Mediterranean region, exhibit diverse species distributed across various continents. While historically cultivated primarily for forage lupins have gained traction globally due to their adaptability to different climates and soil types. China is a big importer of lupins, but they are also trying to grow them domestically. This has been challenging due to factors such as the suitability of the local climate and soil and the management of diseases. In China, research is being conducted to improve lupin cultivation by studying genetic traits, disease resistance and soil adaptation. As lupins are known for their nutritional and environmental benefits, China’s agricultural sector is expected to increase production.

Keywords

Crop breeding, Genetic diversity, Global food security, Lupin, Sustainable agriculture