Soybean

Overview

Production

Cultivation

Health Benefits

What is Soybean?

Soybean, scientifically known as Glycine max, is a legume native to East Asia and is widely cultivated for its versatile uses and nutritional benefits. It is a high-yielding crop that belongs to the family Fabaceae. Soybeans are annual plants that can reach heights of up to 2 meters. The plant has trifoliate leaves and produces clusters of pods containing two or three beans each.

Soybeans are known for their high protein content and are considered a complete protein source, containing all the essential amino acids required by the human body. They also provide significant amounts of dietary fiber, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals. Soybeans contain natural plant compounds called isoflavones, which act as phytoestrogens and have been associated with various health benefits.

Culturally and economically, soybeans play a significant role in various regions worldwide. They are a staple food in many Asian countries, where they are used to make soy milk, tofu, and other soy-based products. Additionally, soybeans have become a major crop for oil extraction, animal feed, and biofuel production due to their high oil content. The versatility of soybeans extends beyond food, with applications in industries such as cosmetics, plastics, adhesives, and lubricants.

Soybeans have been cultivated for thousands of years and continue to be a valuable and widely grown crop due to their nutritional profile, versatility, and economic importance. The demand for soybeans and soy-based products has increased globally, contributing to their widespread cultivation and consumption. Whether used as a source of protein, oil or as an ingredient in various products, soybeans have become an essential component of our modern agricultural and industrial systems.

Soybean Production in the World

Brazil is the top country producing Soybeans in the world. As of 2022, Brazil produced 120,701,031 tonnes of Soybeans, accounting for 34.60% of the total production. The United States is the world's second-largest Soybean producer, with 116,377,000 tonnes, which represents 33.36% of the total production. In terms of Soybean yield, Uganda is the most productive country on the planet with 67,970. Argentina, China, and India are the top three leading countries with '43,861,066', '20,280,000', '12,986,720', and '6,543,158' tonnes respectively. Suriname has the lowest production of soybeans in the world with only 4 tonnes in 2022. The world's total production of soybeans was estimated at 348,856,427 tonnes in 2022.

Source: FAOSTAT

Top 10 Countries by Soybean Production in 2022

Top Countries by Production of Soybean in 2022

Rank	Country	Production(Tonnes)	Acreage(Hectare)	Yield
1	Brazil	120,701,031	40,894,968	29,515
2	United States	116,377,000	34,939,320	33,308
3	Argentina	43,861,066	15,874,266	27,630
4	China	20,280,000	10,240,000	19,805
5	India	12,986,720	12,146,580	10,692
6	Canada	6,543,158	2,118,000	30,893
7	Russia	6,003,153	3,355,984	17,888
8	Paraguay	4,532,103	3,519,850	12,876
9	Bolivia	3,457,144	1,524,794	22,673
10	Ukraine	3,443,800	1,527,200	22,550
11	South Africa	1,148,300	925,300	12,410
12	Nigeria	1,060,000	1,100,000	9,636
13	Italy	943,400	342,530	27,542
14	Uruguay	647,830	1,009,899	6,415
15	Zambia	475,353	374,713	12,686
16	Serbia	398,556	235,275	16,940
17	France	375,820	183,910	20,435
18	Benin	306,198	281,095	10,893
19	Indonesia	301,000	202,126	14,892
20	Romania	258,530	135,850	19,031
21	Kazakhstan	250,385	127,992	19,563
22	Austria	248,420	93,730	26,504
23	Japan	242,800	151,600	16,016
24	Mexico	241,371	113,306	21,303
25	Togo	236,450	231,720	10,204
26	Malawi	220,000	215,000	10,233
27	Iran	210,000	86,000	24,419
28	Ghana	200,000	115,000	17,391
29	Croatia	194,770	90,670	21,481
30	Ethiopia	190,000	72,000	26,389
31	North Korea	180,000	156,000	11,538
32	Turkiye	155,000	38,009	40,780
33	Burkina Faso	152,540	132,528	11,510
34	Colombia	141,987	54,722	25,947
35	Uganda	140,000	20,597	67,970
36	Hungary	134,470	66,280	20,288
37	Myanmar	131,223	126,817	10,347
38	South Korea	129,925	63,956	20,315
39	Germany	120,500	51,500	23,398
40	Slovakia	98,760	66,650	14,818
41	Bangladesh	98,646	58,564	16,844
42	Cameroon	97,703	57,450	17,007
43	Czech Republic	65,540	28,540	22,964
44	Australia	57,200	25,500	22,431
45	Cambodia	56,436	36,194	15,592
46	Vietnam	52,146	32,413	16,088
47	Zimbabwe	51,408	38,177	13,466
48	Mozambique	50,000	40,000	12,500
49	Poland	43,780	18,340	23,871
50	Guatemala	43,000	17,000	25,294
51	Bosnia and Herzegovina	42,642	14,214	30,000
52	Tanzania	41,069	35,225	11,659
53	Egypt	38,000	13,000	29,231
54	Angola	37,374	36,263	10,306
55	Nepal	35,138	24,921	14,100
56	Uzbekistan	34,862	12,385	28,150
57	Rwanda	34,056	65,259	5,219
58	Moldova	32,400	25,300	12,806
59	Ecuador	29,454	22,113	13,320
60	Belize	27,135	14,621	18,559
61	Democratic Republic of the Congo	27,007	51,000	5,295
62	Thailand	20,802	12,462	16,693
63	Mali	20,070	34,146	5,878
64	Lao PDR	14,772	8,125	18,181
65	Bulgaria	10,180	9,500	10,716
66	Nicaragua	10,000	4,000	25,000
67	Switzerland	6,175	2,895	21,330
68	Venezuela	6,091	4,571	13,326
69	Slovenia	5,340	2,330	22,918
70	El Salvador	5,205	2,718	19,151
71	Taiwan	5,000	3,000	16,667
72	Gabon	3,932	4,557	8,630
73	Sri Lanka	3,842	1,931	19,896
74	Spain	3,790	1,330	28,496
75	Liberia	3,348	7,926	4,225
76	Kyrgyzstan	3,076	1,668	18,441
77	Georgia	3,000	1,000	30,000
78	Burundi	2,410	4,746	5,077
79	Syria	2,350	1,330	17,669
80	Lithuania	2,290	2,040	11,225
81	Kenya	2,000	2,007	9,966
82	Honduras	1,619	795	20,353
83	Peru	1,596	831	19,216
84	Cuba	1,000	400	25,000
85	Morocco	1,000	1,000	10,000
86	Timor-Leste	821	914	8,983
87	Albania	686	239	28,703
88	Greece	680	1,280	5,313
89	Philippines	626	440	14,225
90	Cote d'Ivoire	575	392	14,642
91	Panama	98	274	3,588
92	North Macedonia	73	43	16,694
93	Bhutan	58	64	8,951
94	Madagascar	46	77	6,007
95	Iraq	33	41	8,056
96	Azerbaijan	30	54	5,560
97	Tajikistan	21	63	3,275
98	Luxembourg	20	10	20,000
99	Pakistan	9	14	6,429
100	Suriname	4	4	11,733

Cultivation of Soybean

Soybean cultivation is a widespread agricultural practice due to the versatility and economic value of soybeans. Here's an overview of the cultivation process for soybeans:

Climate and Soil Requirements: Soybeans are warm-season crops that require a frost-free growing season of about 100 to 120 days. They prefer temperatures between 20°C and 30°C (68°F and 86°F) during the growing season. Additionally, soybeans grow best in well-drained, fertile soils with a pH range of 6.0 to 7.0.
Variety Selection: Choose soybean varieties that are adapted to your specific climate, soil conditions, and intended use. There are different varieties available, including those for grain production, forage production, or specific traits such as disease resistance.
Land Preparation: Prepare the land by removing any existing vegetation and tilling the soil to create a fine seedbed. This helps with seed-to-soil contact and allows the roots to penetrate the soil easily.
Planting: Soybeans can be planted directly into the field as seeds or as seedlings, depending on farming practices and regional conditions. The recommended planting depth is about 2.5 to 5 cm (1 to 2 inches) deep, depending on soil moisture and texture. Row spacing varies but is commonly around 60 cm (24 inches) to allow for machinery access during cultivation and harvesting.
Fertilization: Conduct soil tests to determine the nutrient requirements of your soil. Soybeans generally require nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, with specific amounts varying depending on soil conditions. Fertilizers can be applied before planting or during the growing season to meet the crop's nutrient needs.
Weed Control: Effective weed control is crucial for soybean cultivation as weeds can compete with soybeans for nutrients, water, and sunlight. Weed management can involve various techniques, including mechanical cultivation, hand weeding, mulching, and herbicide application. It's essential to follow recommended practices and use approved herbicides to prevent damage to soybean plants.
Irrigation: Soybeans have moderate water requirements, and irrigation may be necessary during dry periods to ensure proper plant growth and pod development. The frequency and amount of irrigation depend on factors such as rainfall patterns, soil moisture retention, and local conditions.
Disease and Pest Management: Soybeans can be susceptible to various diseases and pests, including soybean rust, root rot, aphids, and caterpillars. Implement integrated pest management strategies that combine cultural practices, resistant varieties, biological control agents, and, if necessary, approved pesticides to manage these challenges effectively.
Harvesting: Soybeans are typically ready for harvest when the leaves turn yellow, and the pods have matured. The moisture content of the seeds should be around 13% or lower for safe storage. Harvesting can be done using combine harvesters, which separate the seeds from the plants. The harvested soybeans can be used for various purposes, including food production, livestock feed, or processing into oil and other soy-based products.
Crop Rotation: To maintain soil health and reduce the risk of disease and pest buildup, it's beneficial to practice crop rotation. Rotating soybeans with other crops like corn, wheat, or cover crops helps break disease and pest cycles and improves soil fertility.

Remember, specific cultivation practices may vary depending on the region, climate, and farming systems. It's always advisable to consult with local agricultural experts or extension services for the best recommendations suited to your area.

Health Benefits of Soybean

Soybeans are highly nutritious and offer several health benefits when incorporated into a balanced diet. Here are some of the key health benefits of soybeans:

Excellent Protein Source: Soybeans are considered a complete protein source as they contain all the essential amino acids needed by the body. They are particularly beneficial for individuals following vegetarian or vegan diets, as soybeans provide a plant-based protein alternative to animal sources.
Heart Health: Soybeans are rich in unsaturated fats, including omega-3 fatty acids. These fats help reduce LDL cholesterol (the "bad" cholesterol) levels and maintain healthy blood lipid profiles, reducing the risk of heart disease and promoting cardiovascular health.
Weight Management: Soybeans are relatively low in calories and high in protein and dietary fiber. The combination of protein and fiber helps promote satiety, making you feel fuller for longer and potentially aiding in weight management by reducing overall calorie intake.
Bone Health: Soybeans contain significant amounts of calcium, magnesium, and phosphorus, all of which contribute to maintaining strong and healthy bones. Additionally, soybeans are one of the few plant-based sources of calcium, making them beneficial for individuals following a vegan or lactose-free diet.
Menopausal Symptoms: Soybeans contain natural plant compounds called isoflavones, specifically genistein and daidzein, which act as phytoestrogens. These compounds have been reported to alleviate menopausal symptoms, such as hot flashes and night sweats, due to their estrogen-like effects.
Digestive Health: The dietary fiber content in soybeans promotes healthy digestion and helps prevent constipation. It can also contribute to a healthy gut microbiota, supporting overall digestive health.
Blood Sugar Control: Soybeans have a low glycemic index, meaning they cause a slower and more gradual increase in blood sugar levels compared to high-glycemic foods. This characteristic can be beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those aiming to manage blood sugar levels.
Antioxidant Properties: Soybeans contain various antioxidants, including isoflavones and vitamin E, which help neutralize harmful free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a role in reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, thereby contributing to overall health and potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases.

It's important to note that individual responses to soybean consumption may vary. Some individuals may have soy allergies or intolerances, and excessive consumption of soy products may not be suitable for everyone. If you have specific health concerns or conditions, it's always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian for personalized dietary advice.

Nutritional Information of Soybean

Soybeans are highly nutritious and offer a wide range of essential nutrients. Here is the nutritional profile of cooked soybeans per 100 grams:

Calories: 173 kcal
Carbohydrates: 9.9 grams
- Dietary fiber: 6 grams
- Sugars: 3.2 grams
Protein: 16.6 grams
Fat: 9 grams
- Saturated fat: 1.3 grams
- Monounsaturated fat: 2.2 grams
- Polyunsaturated fat: 4.8 grams
Vitamin K: 47 μg (59% of the daily value)
Vitamin B6: 0.4 mg (21% of the daily value)
Folate: 165 μg (41% of the daily value)
Thiamin: 0.2 mg (14% of the daily value)
Riboflavin: 0.2 mg (12% of the daily value)
Niacin: 1.1 mg (6% of the daily value)
Vitamin C: 6 mg (10% of the daily value)
Manganese: 1.7 mg (85% of the daily value)
Iron: 3.6 mg (20% of the daily value)
Phosphorus: 194 mg (19% of the daily value)
Potassium: 515 mg (15% of the daily value)
Magnesium: 70 mg (18% of the daily value)
Calcium: 102 mg (10% of the daily value)
Copper: 0.4 mg (19% of the daily value)
Zinc: 2.1 mg (14% of the daily value)

Soybeans are particularly notable for their high protein content, making them a valuable plant-based protein source. They provide all the essential amino acids required by the body, making them a complete protein.

Additionally, soybeans are a good source of dietary fiber, which aids in digestion and helps maintain bowel regularity.

Soybeans also contain significant amounts of healthy unsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. These fats are beneficial for heart health and contribute to a balanced lipid profile.

Furthermore, soybeans are rich in various vitamins and minerals, such as vitamin K, folate, manganese, iron, and phosphorus. They also provide important antioxidants like isoflavones, which have been associated with several health benefits.

It's worth noting that the nutritional composition of soybeans can vary slightly depending on the variety, cooking method, and preparation.

Regional Variety of Soybean

Soybean varieties can vary by region due to differences in climate, growing conditions, and local preferences. Here are some regional soybean varieties and their common uses:

North America: Midwestern Varieties (e.g., Pioneer 93M90, Asgrow AG2535): These varieties are commonly grown in the Midwestern United States, known as the "Corn Belt." They are primarily used for grain production, providing a reliable source of soybeans for food, feed, and oil extraction.
South America: Brazilian Varieties (e.g., Embrapa BRS 284, Monsoy 8001): Brazil is a major soybean-producing country. Brazilian varieties are cultivated for grain production, contributing to the global soybean market. The soybeans are used for oil production, livestock feed, and export.
East Asia: Japanese Varieties (e.g., Fukuyutaka, Enrei): In Japan, soybeans are grown for different purposes. Fukuyutaka soybeans are often used for making tofu and soy milk, while Enrei soybeans are preferred for traditional fermented soybean products like miso and natto.
Southeast Asia: Indonesian Varieties (e.g., Grobogan, Wilis): In Indonesia, soybeans are commonly used for traditional food products like tempeh. Varieties such as Grobogan and Wilis are specifically selected for their suitability in tempeh production.
China: Huanghuai Varieties (e.g., Heihe 43, Dongnong 42): Huanghuai varieties are widely grown in the Huang-Huai-Hai region of China. These soybeans are primarily used for grain production and oil extraction, as well as being an important component of animal feed.
India: Pusa varieties (e.g., Pusa 16, Pusa 20): Pusa soybean varieties are developed by the Indian Agricultural Research Institute (IARI). These varieties are cultivated in various states of India and are used for grain production, oil extraction, and animal feed.
Africa: Nigerian Varieties (e.g., TGx 1987-10F, TGx 1448-2E): Soybeans are gaining importance in African countries like Nigeria. Nigerian varieties are selected for their adaptability to local conditions and are used for food production, oil extraction, and animal feed.

These are just a few examples of regional soybean varieties and their common uses. Soybeans are cultivated in many other regions worldwide, each with its unique varieties and applications based on local agriculture, culinary traditions, and market demands.

Structure of Soybean

The structure of a soybean plant is similar to that of other legume crops. It is an annual plant that grows to a height of 2 to 6 feet and has leaves that are arranged alternately along the stem. The leaves are typically green and compound, consisting of multiple smaller leaflets.

The soybean plant produces flowers that are typically yellow or white and arranged in clusters along the stem. These flowers are followed by the development of pods, which contain seeds (soybeans). The seeds are oval-shaped and typically yellow or green.

The root system of the soybean plant is made up of a primary taproot and a network of secondary roots. The taproot helps the plant to absorb water and nutrients from deep in the soil, while the secondary roots help to anchor the plant and absorb water and nutrients closer to the soil surface.

Overall, the structure of the soybean plant is well adapted to grow in a range of environments and is an important crop for many farmers and producers worldwide.

The structure of soybean can be broken down into several parts:

Seed coat: The outer layer of the soybean is called the seed coat, which protects the inner parts of the bean.
Cotyledon: The cotyledon is part of the soybean that contains most of the nutrients, including protein, fat, and carbohydrates. Soybean usually have two cotyledons, which are attached to the embryo.
Embryo: The embryo is the small, undeveloped plant that is contained within the soybean. It consists of a radicle (the future root of the plant), a hypocotyl (the stem of the future plant), and two small leaves called cotyledons.
Hilum: The hilum is the scar on the soybean where it was attached to the pod or stem. This is where the soybean was connected to the rest of the plant.

Types of Soybean

There are several different types of soybeans, each with its characteristics and uses. Here are some of the common types of soybeans:

Yellow Soybeans: Yellow soybeans are the most widely cultivated and consumed variety of soybeans. They have a yellow or golden color and are used for various purposes, including making soybean oil, soy milk, tofu, and other soy-based products.
Green Soybeans (Edamame): Green soybeans, also known as edamame, are harvested at an immature stage when the beans are still green and soft. They are commonly consumed as a snack or used in salads, stir-fries, and other dishes. Edamame is often boiled or steamed before consumption.
Black Soybeans: Black soybeans have a darker seed coat compared to other varieties. They are known for their higher antioxidant content and are often used in traditional Chinese medicine. Black soybeans are typically used in cooking and can be made into various dishes, including soups, stews, and fermented soybean products.
High-Oil Soybeans: High-oil soybeans have been bred to have a higher oil content compared to standard soybeans. They are primarily used for oil extraction due to their increased oil yield. The oil from high-oil soybeans is commonly used in cooking, baking, and as an ingredient in various food products.
Non-GMO Soybeans: Non-GMO soybeans are genetically unmodified varieties that have not been genetically engineered. They are often sought after by consumers looking for non-genetically modified organisms in their food. Non-GMO soybeans are used in a wide range of applications, including tofu, soy milk, and other soy-based products.
Specialty Varieties: There are also specialty soybean varieties that have specific characteristics or are bred for certain uses. For example, there are soybean varieties bred for high protein content, disease resistance, or specific industrial applications.

It's important to note that soybean varieties can vary based on factors such as region, climate, and intended use. Farmers and agricultural researchers continually develop and introduce new soybean varieties with improved traits and adaptability to specific conditions.

Uses of Soybean

Soybeans have a wide range of uses and are utilized in various industries and products. Here are some of the common uses of soybeans:

Food Products:
Soybeans are a versatile ingredient in the food industry. They are processed into numerous food products, including:
- Tofu: A popular soy-based product made from curdling soy milk and pressing the resulting curds into solid blocks.
- Soy Milk: A plant-based alternative to dairy milk, made by soaking, grinding, and straining soybeans.
- Soy Sauce: A condiment made by fermenting soybeans with salt and other ingredients.
- Edamame: Immature green soybeans commonly consumed as a snack or used in salads and stir-fries.
- Tempeh: A traditional Indonesian fermented soybean product that can be used in various dishes.
- Soy Flour: Ground soybeans are used as a baking ingredient or as a protein supplement in foods.
- Soybean Oil: Extracted from soybeans, it is a commonly used cooking oil worldwide.
Animal Feed: Soybeans are a valuable source of protein and energy for livestock and poultry. They are processed into soybean meal, which is a primary component of animal feed. Soybean meal is highly nutritious and provides essential amino acids, making it an important feed ingredient for livestock, poultry, and aquaculture.
Biofuels: Soybean oil can be converted into biodiesel, a renewable and environmentally friendly alternative to petroleum-based diesel fuel. Biodiesel derived from soybean oil can be blended with conventional diesel fuel or used as a standalone fuel in diesel engines.
Industrial Products:
Soybeans have industrial applications and are used in the production of various products, including:
- Adhesives: Soybean oil-based adhesives are used in the production of plywood, particleboard, and other wood products.
- Plastics and Resins: Soy-based plastics and resins can be used as an alternative to petroleum-based materials.
- Lubricants: Soybean oil is utilized in the manufacturing of environmentally friendly lubricants and hydraulic fluids.
- Printing Inks: Soybean oil is used in the production of soy-based printing inks, which are more environmentally friendly than traditional petroleum-based inks.
Personal Care and Cosmetics: Soybean derivatives, such as soy protein and soybean oil, are used in various personal care and cosmetic products. They can be found in skincare products, hair care products, soaps, lotions, and more, due to their moisturizing and emollient properties.

These are just a few examples of the many uses of soybeans. The versatility and nutritional benefits of soybeans have made them an important crop with wide-ranging applications across industries.