Soybean
Description
Soy is a legume crop widely used in agriculture and the food industry due to its high protein content and useful fats.
Composition
It is rich in protein (up to 40%), fats (up to 20%), and contains vitamins and minerals.
Application
Food: Production of soy oil, soy milk, tofu, soy sauce, textured soy protein (used as meat substitute).
Animal Feed: Soy Schrot is the main component of animal feed.
Biofuel: Biodiesel production from soybean oil.
Industry: Used in the production of bioplastics and biopolymers.
Agronomic features
It requires a moderately warm climate, grows well on fertile soils, and is often used in crop rotation to improve soil fertility.
Main manufacturers
United States, Brazil, Argentina, China, India.
Economic importance
A key crop for food security and the agricultural economy, an important export product for many countries.