Soyabeans

Soyabeans are legumes native to East Asia, widely cultivated for their edible beans. The beans are typically harvested when mature and dried, and can then be processed into various forms such as whole beans, flour, oil, or milk.

Soyabeans and their derivatives are used in a wide variety of foods. They are a source of protein and oil, and are used to make products like tofu, tempeh, soy milk, soy sauce, and soy flour. In processed foods, soy protein isolates can act as emulsifiers or texturisers.

Soyabeans are a nutritious food, providing protein, fibre, and various vitamins and minerals. Regulatory bodies like the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) have evaluated soy-derived ingredients. Some research has explored the potential health effects of soy consumption, including its impact on cardiovascular health and menopause symptoms, with findings from peer-reviewed reviews being mixed. Soyabeans are not considered a food additive under UK law.