Photo: tyler olson/iStock/Thinkstock Soybeans – which are related to clover, peas and alfalfa – are incredibly versatile as a food. But they are also used in thousands of products such as soaps, cosmetics, plastics, clothing, inks, glues, lubricants, coatings and insulation.
In foods, they are especially desirable, because they are high in protein but low in calories, carbohydrates and fats. As well, they supply all nine essential amino acids, and high in vitamins and nutrients. Plus, they contain no cholesterol and are easy to digest.
Soy Products: Moisture and Binding
The soy legumes’ consistency allows them to be transformed into oils and flours, as well as dairy and meat substitutes. Importantly, isolated soy proteins are used to emulsify fat and bind water, which keeps many products’ moistness without affecting other ingredients.
Soy lecithin is often used in chocolate, margarine and cheeses to keep their ingredients from separating and clumping. The isolates can also be used to give an elastic gel texture. This can make drinks such as soy lattes seem more creamy or full-bodied.
Besides a remarkable flexibility, soybeans are also one of the most inexpensive crops to grow. They also happen to thrive in a wide variety of climates. This explains why they are so desirable for a range of industries. Although the plant originated in Asia, the vast majority of the world’s supply is now grown in the United States and South America.
What About Soy Lecithin?
In recent years, there has been an increasing amount of controversy about soybeans, with some scientists raising alarms about their effects on hormone production. Others are concerned that many soy crops have been genetically modified. But it’s unclear what impact those modifications will have on human health and non-GM crops in the long run.
With the increased prevalence of soy in the North American diet, allergists have also noticed a corresponding rise in allergies to soy and soy products.
Fortunately, many people with an allergy to soy can tolerate soy lecithin, which is found in thousands of foods. But that’s not so for everyone with the allergy. It’s important to discuss this allergy with an allergist before eating any products that contain soy or soy products.
