Beans are a staple food in many areas of the world but are an especially important component of the diets of those living in areas of Central and South America and Africa. Dry beans were first domesticated in Central and South America around 7,000 years ago. They subsequently made their way north through Mexico and the rest of North America. These beans were frequently cultivated with corn and, on occasion, squash. Dry beans were transported from the Americas to Europe, then to Africa and Asia once Europeans discovered the Americas. Currently, dry beans are a significant crop in many nations, particularly those with high levels of consumption. Brazil, India, China, Burma, and Mexico are the top five producers.