Soybeans are one of the most versatile crops in the world, primarily known for their oil, which is extensively used in food production and biodiesel. After extracting soybean oil for biodiesel, a significant amount of byproducts remains. Understanding these byproducts' uses can highlight the sustainability and economic potential of soybean processing. This article explores the various applications of remaining soybean products after oil extraction, focusing on their roles in animal feed, human food products, and industrial applications.

When soybeans are processed to extract oil, approximately 47 pounds of soybean meal and 11 pounds of crude soybean oil are produced from a 60-pound bushel of soybeans. The oil is often used for biodiesel, but the remaining meal and fiber are rich in protein and have various uses.

The predominant use of soybean meal is as animal feed. After oil extraction, the remaining meal is processed into a high-protein feed that is highly digestible for livestock. Here are some key points regarding its use in animal feed:

Poultry and Swine Feed: Over half of the soybean meal produced is utilized in poultry feed, while the remainder is often used for swine, cattle, and fish. In regions like North Carolina, hog farms are the largest consumers of soybean meal, highlighting its importance in livestock nutrition.
Aquaculture: Soybean meal is increasingly used in fish feed, providing a sustainable alternative to fish meal, which has become less available due to overfishing.

While the majority of soybean meal is directed towards animal feed, some of it is also used for human consumption. This includes:

Soy Foods: Products like tofu, soy milk, and tempeh are derived from soybeans, though they represent only a small fraction (about 7%) of total soybean usage.
Nutritional Supplements: Soy protein is also found in various health supplements and processed foods, contributing to dietary protein intake.

Beyond food, soybean byproducts play a crucial role in various industrial applications. The fiber and protein extracted from soybeans are utilized in:

Adhesives and Coatings: Soy-based adhesives are becoming popular due to their eco-friendly properties. They are used in woodworking and various manufacturing processes.
Insulation Materials: The fibrous remnants of soybeans are used to create insulation materials, contributing to energy-efficient building practices.
Bioplastics: Major companies, including automotive manufacturers, are incorporating soy-based plastics into their products, such as in seat cushions and interior panels.

The byproducts of soybean processing, particularly after extracting oil for biodiesel, are not just waste; they are valuable resources that contribute significantly to animal nutrition, human food, and various industrial applications. As the demand for sustainable and eco-friendly products continues to rise, the utilization of soybean byproducts will play an increasingly important role in multiple sectors, underscoring the importance of soybeans in both agriculture and industry.

Oklahoma Soybean Board. (n.d.). Soybean Uses. Retrieved from Oklahoma Soybean Board
North Carolina Soybeans. (n.d.). Uses of Soybeans. Retrieved from North Carolina Soybeans