Gram flour (Besan)

Gram flour, commonly known as Besan, is a staple pulse flour made from ground chickpeas (Bengal gram). It is a fundamental ingredient in South Asian cuisines, particularly in India, Pakistan, and Bangladesh, used for making savory snacks like pakoras, various sweets, and flatbreads.

Because 'Gram' or 'Gram flour' is a generic commodity name rather than a single trademarked brand, it is produced by hundreds of different food companies globally. Common international brands that package and distribute gram flour include Rajah, TRS, Natco, and Tata Sampann.

Manufacturing typically occurs in the countries where chickpeas are grown predominantly, such as India, which is the world's largest producer. However, local packaging and distribution subsidiaries operate in Europe, North America, and Australia to serve the global diaspora. Ownership of these brands varies from independent family-owned enterprises to large multinational food conglomerates.