Black beans?

Beans

Rich flavor.

24g of protein.

From 1,200m to your plate.

From grandfather to grandfather. Greece's only black bean producer.

Heritage

Try our beans .

Black bean harvest in Ano Vrontou

Our Story

In the heart of mountainous Ano Vrontou, Serres, at an altitude of 1,200 meters, a unique product is born — one with history and passion. In 2019, Prodromos Matenoglou left physiotherapy to follow his love for the land — beginning to cultivate black beans from seeds preserved for generations in his grandfather's warehouse.

Watering black bean crops Sowing black beans in the fields

The distinctive climatic conditions of the area, with intense temperature fluctuations and a clean mountain environment within a Natura 2000 zone, contribute to developing a product of exceptional quality. Our black beans are rich in protein (24g/100g), amino acids, dietary fiber, and antioxidants — an authentic Greek superfood.

Every bean is the result of personal care, family labor, and respect for nature. From sowing to harvest, everything is done with love — without pesticides, by hand, with the goal of bringing to your table an authentic Greek product of the highest value.

Nutritional Value

Black Beans, Ano Vrontou, harvest 2022 — Examination: 18–24.04.2023

Parameter Value
Energy307.84 kcal / 1,288 kJ
Fat0.27 g/100g
of which saturated<0.1 g/100g
Carbohydrates53.08 g/100g
of which sugars2.42 g/100g
Dietary fiber6.31 g/100g
Protein23.88 g/100g
Salt (NaCl)0.48%
Sodium (Na)1,938 mg/kg
Moisture14.88%

Maximum regulatory limits per EU Regulation (EC) 1881/2006, Directive 2002/32, and the Greek Food and Beverage Code.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes black beans a superfood?

Black beans contain 213mg of anthocyanins per 100g — approximately 10 times the antioxidant content of oranges and the highest of any common bean variety. They are rich in protein, dietary fiber, folate (111% DV), copper (93% DV), and iron (63% DV). Studies show a 28% reduction in LDL cholesterol.

What is the nutritional value of Grandpa Beans?

Approximately 24g of protein per 100g (lab-verified: 23.88g), 308 kcal, 6.31g dietary fiber, and extremely low fat (0.27g). Combined with rice or grains, they create a complete protein with all 9 essential amino acids.

Where are Grandpa Beans grown?

In Ano Vrontou, Serres, at 1,200 meters altitude within a protected Natura 2000 zone. The area features 20°C daily temperature swings, clean mountain air, sandy mineral-rich soils, and a slow 5-month growing season (May–September).

How are they cultivated?

Entirely by hand — sown, harvested, naturally sun-dried, and manually packaged. No pesticides or synthetic inputs. Family-operated on family-owned land.

How do I cook black beans?

Ready in approximately 30 minutes — half the time of white beans. Ideal for black bean fasolada, salads with herbs and lime, bean keftedes, smooth puree, burritos and tacos, or veggie burgers. Their thin skin makes them especially digestible.

What is the story behind Grandpa Beans?

In 2019, Prodromos Matenoglou discovered forgotten heritage seeds in his grandfather's warehouse. Greece had zero domestic commercial production of black beans — all were imported from China. He left physiotherapy to cultivate them. Featured on Dragons' Den Greece (January 2024, ANT1), securing an investment deal.

How can I order?

By phone (697 249 5262), email (info@grandpabeans.gr), or through specialty retailers across Greece. You can also find us on Instagram: @prodromos_matenoglou.

Contact

Orders via phone or email

Phone 697 249 5262
Address
Ano Vrontou, Serres, 621 00