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

The global production of Soybean plays a significant role in agriculture and trade. As of 2023, Brazil is the top producer, contributing 152,144,238 tonnes, which accounts for 40.99% of the total global production. United States ranks second, producing 113,343,420 tonnes, representing 30.54% of the world's output. Other significant producers include Argentina, China, and India, with production levels of 25,044,978, 19,491,297, and 14,984,927 tonnes, respectively. Suriname has the lowest production among the listed countries, contributing just 3 tonnes in 2023. In total, global production of Soybean reached approximately 371,173,611 tonnes in 2023.

Top 10 Countries by Soybean Production in 2023

Countries Ranked by Soybean Production in 2023

Source:FAOSTAT
Last Updated: 23 Jan 2025

Rank	Country	Production (Tonnes)	Acreage (Hectare)	Yield
1	Brazil	152,144,238	44,447,552	3,423
2	United States	113,343,420	33,348,650	3,399
3	Argentina	25,044,978	14,356,922	1,745
4	China	19,491,297	9,981,614	1,953
5	India	14,984,927	13,084,089	1,145
6	Paraguay	10,197,050	3,608,000	2,826
7	Canada	6,980,525	2,261,200	3,087
8	Russia	6,600,000	3,500,000	1,886
9	Ukraine	4,742,550	1,834,000	2,586
10	Bolivia	3,670,464	1,824,029	2,012
11	South Africa	2,770,000	1,148,300	2,412
12	Nigeria	1,350,000	1,200,000	1,125
13	Italy	1,095,940	310,720	3,527
14	Zambia	760,067	603,903	1,259
15	Uruguay	647,800	1,009,900	641
16	Serbia	599,878	211,020	2,843
17	Benin	520,929	518,961	1,004
18	France	387,820	157,750	2,458
19	Malawi	350,000	255,000	1,373
20	Indonesia	326,493	219,193	1,490
21	Romania	320,800	141,660	2,265
22	Austria	274,960	88,450	3,109
23	Togo	273,276	273,257	1,000
24	Japan	260,800	154,700	1,686
25	Ghana	260,000	140,000	1,857
26	Ethiopia	220,000	90,000	2,444
27	Croatia	213,020	76,690	2,778
28	Kazakhstan	203,922	99,512	2,049
29	Mexico	199,163	91,116	2,186
30	Colombia	196,414	85,540	2,296
31	Iran	190,000	79,000	2,405
32	North Korea	180,000	156,000	1,154
33	Hungary	173,310	58,140	2,981
34	Uganda	150,000	210,000	714
35	South Korea	141,477	67,671	2,091
36	Myanmar	137,699	132,960	1,036
37	Turkiye	137,500	32,684	4,207
38	Slovakia	132,810	50,150	2,648
39	Mozambique	130,000	80,000	1,625
40	Burkina Faso	129,225	122,794	1,052
41	Germany	129,000	44,800	2,880
42	Cameroon	108,753	61,990	1,754
43	Bangladesh	107,307	58,940	1,821
44	Zimbabwe	69,291	37,658	1,840
45	Czech Republic	63,390	26,510	2,391
46	Egypt	60,000	20,000	3,000
47	Australia	52,000	20,700	2,512
48	Cambodia	49,000	34,000	1,441
49	Vietnam	48,103	29,946	1,606
50	Poland	47,030	18,020	2,610
51	Angola	44,640	42,920	1,040
52	Guatemala	43,000	17,000	2,529
53	Tanzania	39,323	33,247	1,183
54	Moldova	38,419	24,778	1,551
55	Nepal	36,672	26,842	1,366
56	Rwanda	29,622	70,691	419
57	Belize	29,101	16,591	1,754
58	Bosnia and Herzegovina	28,127	12,785	2,200
59	Democratic Republic of the Congo	27,695	50,000	554
60	Mali	23,726	39,390	602
61	Thailand	20,016	12,010	1,667
62	Uzbekistan	18,530	6,913	2,680
63	Ecuador	13,112	8,665	1,513
64	Nicaragua	11,000	5,000	2,200
65	Kenya	10,100	11,313	893
66	Slovenia	7,880	3,000	2,627
67	Sri Lanka	7,780	3,986	1,952
68	Spain	7,670	2,440	3,143
69	Switzerland	6,949	3,079	2,257
70	Bulgaria	6,070	3,670	1,654
71	Afghanistan	6,000	3,000	2,000
72	Lao PDR	5,888	2,371	2,484
73	Venezuela	5,480	4,113	1,332
74	El Salvador	5,292	2,720	1,946
75	Taiwan	5,000	3,000	1,667
76	Gabon	4,008	4,656	861
77	Liberia	3,375	7,973	423
78	Georgia	3,000	1,000	3,000
79	Peru	2,714	1,226	2,214
80	Kyrgyzstan	2,675	1,465	1,826
81	Burundi	2,311	4,966	465
82	Honduras	2,194	1,097	2,000
83	Syria	2,133	1,217	1,753
84	Lithuania	1,710	1,230	1,390
85	Morocco	1,000	1,000	1,000
86	Cuba	1,000	400	2,500
87	Timor-Leste	854	927	921
88	Greece	760	1,860	409
89	Philippines	616	339	1,815
90	Cote d'Ivoire	568	389	1,462
91	Albania	519	181	2,863
92	Panama	98	281	349
93	North Macedonia	88	53	1,660
94	Bhutan	66	91	725
95	Luxembourg	50	30	1,667
96	Madagascar	47	78	603
97	Iraq	34	39	876
98	Azerbaijan	30	53	557
99	Tajikistan	21	63	330
100	French Polynesia	12	6	2,014
101	Pakistan	7	11	636
102	Suriname	3	3	1,109

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.