Soybean checkoff partners with soyfood organization to promote soy

Reaching retailers with information on the benefits of soy can drive the message to consumers

Many people try to eat healthier and make smart food choices. Soy can help. The 2010 U.S. Department of Agriculture’s (USDA) Dietary Guidelines note soy as a healthful choice in several areas and also urges consumers to increase consumption of soyfoods. Through its domestic marketing program, the checkoff will be working with the Soyfoods Association of North America to sponsor outreach activities to engage grocery retailers.

The resources that retailers can request offer guidance on how to host soyfoods tastings and provide in-store displays announcing April as soyfoods month. “With the health benefits of fitting soy into our diets, it is important for USB to promote and support efforts to reach the consumer,” says Laura Foell, a soybean farmer from Schaller, Iowa, and vice chair of the USB domestic marketing program.

“The retailer needs fact-based information in order to realize how soy fits into a healthy lifestyle. By helping the retailer move product, we are moving soybeans as well.”

The checkoff’s Soyfoods Guide (found here) will also be available this month to help consumers add soy to their diet and provide other tips for healthy eating.

A little more than a decade ago, soybean checkoff-funded research helped confirm the link between soy consumption and the reduced risk of heart disease.

In addition to being noted in the USDA’s guidelines, keep in mind that soy is heart-healthy. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, 25 grams of soy protein per day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease.

Not only does the checkoff support outreach about soyfoods, but also research on soyfoods and the potential benefits in these foods that could add more value to U.S. soy.

Through support of coalitions such as QUALISOY, USB also encourages the development of new soybean varieties that would produce healthier or value-added soy oils for human use.

“USB works in partnership with other groups to do research on the benefits of using soy in diets as they relate to heart health; breast cancer research; and men’s, women’s and children’s health,” adds Foell. “This research is based on sound science and is peer reviewed to make sure that the information cited will be accurate.”