The World’s Oldest Vegetable: The Pea

Did you know that the world's oldest known vegetable is the pea? It has been cultivated for over 9,000 years.

They’ve been around for a very long time, even before many other vegetables we know today. Let’s find out more about these ancient little veggies!

What is a Pea?

A pea is a small, round green vegetable that grows inside a pod. When you open the pod, you find the peas inside. They are sweet and can be eaten fresh, frozen, or cooked.

How Old Are Peas?

Peas are really old! They have been around for thousands of years. People have been growing and eating peas since ancient times. The oldest peas found by scientists are over 9,000 years old!

Where Did Peas Come From?

Peas originally came from the area around the Mediterranean Sea, which is in Europe, Asia, and Africa. People started farming peas and spreading them to different parts of the world a long time ago.

Why Are Peas Special?

Ancient Veggie: Peas are one of the oldest known vegetables, which means they have been part of human diets for a very long time.
Healthy Food: Peas are good for you! They are full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help keep you healthy.
Easy to Grow: Peas are easy to grow and can be planted in many different climates. They don’t need too much space and can be grown in gardens or on farms.

Fun Facts About Peas

Green Color: Peas are usually green, but there are also yellow peas.
In Pods: Peas grow inside pods, which protect them until they are ready to be eaten.
Frozen Peas: Peas can be frozen to keep them fresh for a long time, so you can enjoy them even when they’re out of season.

Peas are the world’s oldest known vegetable and have been enjoyed by people for thousands of years. They are not only ancient but also tasty and good for you. Next time you eat peas, you can think about how they’ve been a part of our history for a very long time!