Deutsch: Sojabohne / Español: Glycine max/ Português: Soja / Français: Soja / Italiano: Glycine max
The soybean (US) or soya bean (UK) is a species of legume native to East Asia, widely grown for its edible bean which has numerous uses. The plant is classed as an oilseed rather than a pulse by the UN Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO).
Fat-free (defatted) soybean meal is a significant and cheap source of protein for animal feeds and many prepackaged meals; soy vegetable oil is another product of processing the soybean crop.
In the industrial and industry context, soybean refers to a crop that is grown and processed for a variety of uses. Here are some examples of how soybean is used in industry:
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Food: Soybeans are used to make a variety of food products, such as tofu, soy milk, and soy sauce. They can also be used as a meat substitute in products like veggie burgers and sausages.
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Animal feed: Soybean meal, which is produced after the oil has been extracted, is a common ingredient in animal feed for livestock and poultry.
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Biofuels: Soybean oil can be processed into biodiesel, which is used as a renewable fuel for diesel engines.
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Industrial products: Soybean oil is also used in the production of industrial products such as candles, paint, and printing ink.
Similar crops to soybean include other oilseed crops such as canola, sunflower, and flax, which are also used for food and industrial purposes.