Bean Flour
Last updated: February 10, 2026
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Bean Flour Bean flour is ground dried beans (various types) used as a grain-free protein and carbohydrate source in pet foods.
What It Is
Bean flour is ground dried beans (various types) used as a grain-free protein and carbohydrate source in pet foods.
Compare to Similar Ingredients
- vs. chickpea flour: Bean flour is a generic term for ground legumes (could be navy beans, black beans, etc.), while chickpea flour is specifically from garbanzo beans. Both boost plant protein.
Why It's Used in Dog Products
Manufacturers include bean flour in dog food, treats, and supplements for several reasons:
- Grain-free alternative to wheat flour
- Provides plant protein
- Gluten-free binding agent
- Adds fiber and nutrients
- Cost-effective grain-free option
Nutritional Profile
Quality Considerations
When evaluating bean flour in dog products, it's important to understand protein density, amino acid profile, digestibility, and sourcing quality. This ingredient's quality and appropriateness can vary significantly based on sourcing, processing, and the specific formula it's used in.
Bean flour can be made from various beans (navy, pinto, black, etc.) or a mixture. It provides moderate plant protein and fiber along with some micronutrients. The quality varies depending on the bean source. Like all legume flours, it's more nutritious than grain flours but contains anti-nutrients and incomplete protein. The vague name 'bean flour' without specifying the bean type is less transparent than named bean flours.
Potential Concerns
While bean flour can be appropriate in dog nutrition, pet owners should be aware of allergies, protein digestibility, and quality variations between named and generic sources. Individual dogs may respond differently to the same ingredient based on their health status, age, and sensitivities.
Bean flour is an acceptable grain-free ingredient, though we prefer when manufacturers specify which beans (e.g., 'chickpea flour' vs. generic 'bean flour'). It's better than corn or wheat flour but shouldn't be a primary protein contributor. We appreciate its use in grain-free formulas as long as animal proteins remain primary. The lack of specificity (which beans?) is slightly concerning but not a deal-breaker.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is bean flour safe for dogs?
Yes, bean flour is safe for dogs when used appropriately in properly formulated dog food. As with any ingredient, individual dogs may have sensitivities, so monitor for any adverse reactions when first introducing products containing this ingredient.
What does bean flour do in dog products?
Ground dried beans (various legumes) providing plant protein, fiber, and carbohydrates. Dog food manufacturers include this ingredient to provide grain-free alternative to wheat flour and provide plant protein.
Related Ingredients
Analyze Your Dog's Food
Want to know what's really in your dog's food, treats, or supplements? Paste the ingredient list to get instant analysis.
Try the Analyzer Tool