Uses of Beans. Because seeds contain much protein, beans are useful as a meat substitute and in different parts of the world are a characteristic itemâoften a stapleâof the national fare. Baked beans, cooked for hours with pork or molasses or both, are a traditional New England dish. Share | Cite. Because seeds contain much protein, beans are useful as a meat substitute and in different parts of the world are a characteristic itemâoften a stapleâof the national fare.
Shoppers take note: Costco announced this week it is increasing its membership fees by 1o percent starting Nov. 1, just in time for the holiday season.
The number of Costco members increased 6% last year to more than 81 million. And members are loyal: 91% of U.S. customers renewed their membership in 2015. The warehouse club is gearing up to switch what credit card it accepts at the checkout -- ending its longtime partnership with American Express ().