By Scout Nelson
The United Soybean Board (USB) focuses on enhancing profit opportunities for soybean growers. Comprising soybean farmers, USB manages the Soybean Checkoff, which funds projects that maximize the value of soybeans. The organization sees soybeans as versatile, with uses spanning food, fuel, and industrial applications.
According to USB Chairman, “We’re looking at basically 80 percent of [the soybean] as composed of the meal, the other 20 percent as composed of oil.” The meal primarily supports animal agriculture, with 97 percent used in feeding poultry, livestock, and fish. This demand adds significant value to soybean production.
USB also explores innovative uses for soybean oil. These include its use in biofuels, as well as in sustainable products like asphalt, footwear, and tires. Leading companies like Skechers and Okabashi utilize soy-based materials to promote eco-friendly alternatives to petroleum products.
A recent Agri-Pulse webinar highlighted the growing global demand for U.S. soybeans. Sixty percent of U.S. soybeans are exported, with China being the largest buyer. China’s demand underscores the global reliance on U.S. soybeans for food, feed, and industrial purposes.
Soybean Checkoff-supported initiatives ensure that U.S. soybeans remain competitive worldwide by differentiating them, improving preferences, and securing market access. As global supply and demand for soybeans grow, USB works to balance these forces, ensuring sustainable growth for the industry.
This dedication to innovation and market expansion helps U.S. soybean growers remain leaders in the global agricultural landscape, meeting rising demands for food, fuel, and sustainable industrial products.
Photo Credits:south-dakota-soybean-checkoff
Categories: South Dakota, Crops, Soybeans, Energy