Navy bean

[10] In Australia, navy bean production began during World War II when it became necessary to find an economical way of supplying a nutritious food to the many troops—especially American troops—based in Queensland.

[15][16] This might be at least partly explained by the high saponin content of navy beans.

Saponins also exhibit antibacterial and anti-fungal activity, and have been found to inhibit cancer cell growth.

[18] Dried and canned beans stay fresh longer by storing them in a pantry or other cool, dark place under 75 °F (24 °C).

Beans that are discolored from the pure white color should be avoided, as they may have been poorly handled while they dried.