Soybean

plants · legumes · farming

Native to East Asia. Soybeans originally came from East Asia and have been grown there for thousands of years before spreading to farms around the world.

World's most grown legume. More soybeans are planted and harvested globally than any other legume crop, making them incredibly important for feeding both people and farm animals.

Protein powerhouse. Soybeans contain lots of protein and healthy oils, which is why they're used to make tofu, soy milk, and are fed to chickens, cows, and other animals.

Lives in soil partnership. Like other legumes, soybeans have special bacteria in their roots that capture nitrogen from the air and put it into the soil, making soil richer for other crops.

Used in countless products. Beyond food, soybeans are turned into cooking oil, biodiesel fuel, plastics, and even ink, making them one of the most useful crops on Earth.