White beans are a group of legumes with white casings and starchy insides which include navy beans, cannellini beans, “great northern” beans, and lima beans. Navy beans, great northern beans, and cannellini beans are grown from the Phaseolus vulgaris plant, while lima beans are grown on the Phaseolus lunatus plant. White beans are a rich, gluten-free source of protein and contain high amounts of complex carbohydrates, potassium, and dietary fiber. When stored properly, canned and dry white beans are a nonperishable food that can be bought in bulk.