A breakthrough in chickpea breeding is helping unlock new potential for plant-based protein. Supported by FFAR funding, NuCicer developed a high-protein, early-maturing chickpea variety (NC-1) using expanded genetic diversity from wild chickpeas.
This innovation addresses key production challenges, reducing costs for growers, improving processing efficiency, and increasing protein yield—making chickpeas more competitive with other plant proteins like yellow pea. Already adopted across more than 10,000 acres, NC-1 is helping scale chickpeas as a sustainable, nutrient-dense ingredient for the food industry.
Beyond productivity gains, the research highlights how public-private partnerships can accelerate crop innovation, strengthen supply chains, and expand opportunities in the alternative protein market.
