Are Beans a Grain or Cereal? The Definitive Guide to Their Classification
                                
                                
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                                    4 min read                                
                            
                                According to the U.S. Dietary Guidelines, beans are considered part of both the vegetable and protein food groups, which often leads to confusion. However, the truth is that beans are neither a grain nor a cereal; they are legumes. Understanding this distinction is key to building a nutritious and balanced diet.