Lentils, which researchers have traced back to 8000-7000 BC, originated in the Near East. From there the crop spread to South Asia, Northeast Africa, and Eastern Europe, and North America. Lentil is the most important pulse in Bangladesh and Nepal, where it significantly contributes to the diet.
Farmers also grow lentils in India, Iran, and Turkey.
Other significant producers in the developing world include Argentina, China, Ethiopia, Morocco, Pakistan and Syria. Production is expanding due to the rising demand of an increasing population. Global lentil production is growing rapidly. Developing countries account for 87 percent of the world s lentil area. People throughout the world eat lentils in a range of dishes.