Do Pinto Beans Have Legumes? Understanding the Classification

January 9, 2026 •

3 min read

According to botanical classification, all beans, including pinto beans, are a specific type of legume. The legume family, known as Fabaceae, encompasses plants that produce a pod with seeds inside, and the dried, edible seeds are referred to as pulses.

Quick Summary

Pinto beans are classified as legumes, belonging to the broader plant family Fabaceae, alongside other beans, peas, and lentils. This classification is based on the plant's structure and fruit production. All beans are legumes, though not all legumes are beans.

Key Points

Pinto beans are legumes: All beans, including pinto beans, are part of the legume family, known as Fabaceae.
Pulses are edible seeds: Pulses are the dried edible seeds of legume plants, making pinto beans a type of pulse.
Botanical vs. culinary definitions: While botanically classified as legumes, some fresh pods like green beans are culinarily considered vegetables.
Rich in fiber and protein: Pinto beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber and plant-based protein, promoting digestive health and satiety.
Beneficial for heart health: The high fiber content in pinto beans has been shown to help lower cholesterol levels.
Low glycemic index food: Despite their carbohydrate content, pinto beans have a low glycemic index, making them beneficial for blood sugar control.

Yes, Pinto Beans Are Legumes

To directly answer the question, yes, pinto beans are a type of legume. This often-confused point is a matter of botanical classification. A legume is a plant from the family Fabaceae (also known as Leguminosae), which produces its seeds within a pod. The edible seeds from these plants are called pulses, a category which includes beans, lentils, and peas. Therefore, pinto beans are a perfect example of a pulse, which is a type of legume.

The Relationship Between Legumes, Pulses, and Beans

The relationship can be thought of as a hierarchy. The broadest category is legumes, which includes the entire family of plants that produce pods. Within the legume family, there are various subdivisions. Pulses are the dried, edible seeds of certain legumes, which is where pinto beans fit in. Finally, beans are a specific type of pulse. The famous analogy simplifies it well: all beans are legumes, but not all legumes are beans. Other legumes include fresh peas and green beans, but these are typically classified as vegetables rather than pulses because they are eaten fresh, not dried.

Common Examples of Legumes and Pulses

To help clarify the distinctions, consider the following list of common legumes and pulses:

Beans: This category includes pinto, kidney, black, and navy beans, all harvested for their dried edible seeds.
Lentils: These are the lens-shaped pulses that come in many varieties, like brown, green, and red.
Peas: This can refer to dried split peas (pulses) or fresh garden peas (legumes, typically classified as a vegetable).
Chickpeas: Also known as garbanzo beans, these are a popular type of pulse used in hummus and other dishes.
Peanuts: Surprisingly to some, peanuts are a legume, not a true nut, because they grow in a pod underground.
Soybeans: These versatile legumes can be eaten fresh as edamame or processed into products like tofu and soy milk.

Nutritional Comparison: Pinto Beans vs. Other Legumes

All legumes are recognized for their robust nutritional profiles, but there are subtle differences. Here is a comparison highlighting some key nutritional aspects per one-cup serving of cooked legumes:


Nutrient	Pinto Beans	Black Beans	Lentils
Protein	15 g	15 g	18 g
Fiber	15 g	8 g	16 g
Folate	294 mcg	128 mcg	358 mcg
Iron	3.6 mg	1.8 mg	6.6 mg

As the table shows, all are excellent sources of protein, fiber, and important minerals. Pinto beans notably provide a high amount of dietary fiber, supporting digestive health and blood sugar regulation. Lentils, while similar in protein, offer an impressive iron content. Ultimately, incorporating a variety of legumes ensures a wide spectrum of nutrients.

Health Benefits of This Nutritious Legume

Because they are a legume, pinto beans provide a multitude of health benefits.

Heart Health: Studies have shown that including pinto beans in your diet can help lower both total and LDL (bad) cholesterol levels, contributing to improved cardiovascular health. Their high fiber content, including soluble fiber, plays a key role in this process.
Blood Sugar Management: Pinto beans have a low glycemic index, meaning they release sugar into the bloodstream slowly. This helps stabilize blood sugar levels, making them an excellent food for managing or preventing diabetes.
Weight Management: The combination of high fiber and protein promotes feelings of fullness, which can help control appetite and support healthy weight loss.
Rich in Antioxidants: Pinto beans contain powerful antioxidants, such as flavonoids, which protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Essential Nutrients: In addition to their macronutrients, pinto beans are packed with important micronutrients like folate, magnesium, potassium, and phosphorus.

Conclusion

In summary, the answer to the question "do pinto beans have legumes?" is a definitive yes. The pinto bean is a specific type of pulse that falls under the broader category of legumes, which are plants that produce seeds in a pod. Recognizing this classification is a simple way to better understand your food. Adding pinto beans to your diet means incorporating a nutritious, versatile, and affordable source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential minerals. Whether you enjoy them in a hearty chili, refried for a burrito, or simmered in a soup, these tasty legumes offer significant health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, from a botanical standpoint, all beans are a type of legume. A legume is a plant that bears fruit in a pod, and beans are the edible seeds from many of these plants.

A legume refers to the entire plant from the family Fabaceae, including the pod and seeds. A pulse is specifically the dried edible seed of a legume plant, such as pinto beans, lentils, or chickpeas.

Yes, pinto beans and lentils both belong to the same broad plant family, Fabaceae. They are both classified as pulses, which are the dried seeds of legume plants.

Pinto beans are packed with nutrients, including high amounts of fiber, protein, folate, iron, and antioxidants. These components contribute to heart health, stable blood sugar, and a reduced risk of chronic diseases.

Yes, pinto beans are versatile and can be substituted for other legumes like black beans, navy beans, or pink beans in many recipes, though it may slightly alter the flavor and texture.

Canned pinto beans retain most of the nutrients found in their dried counterparts. However, they may contain added sodium, so it's best to choose low-sodium versions or rinse them before use.

No, raw or undercooked pinto beans contain a toxic protein called phytohaemagglutinin. They must be thoroughly soaked and cooked to be safe for consumption.