(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – April marks Soy Foods Month, highlighting foods made from Missouri’s leading crop and their role in everyday meals.
Missouri Soybeans is recognizing the month by sharing practical ways soy foods can be incorporated into familiar dishes, from breakfast to dinner. As interest in protein-rich foods continues to grow, soy offers an option that can stand on its own or complement other protein sources in a meal.
“Soy Foods Month is a chance to take a closer look at how soy fits into the way people already eat,” says Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council Chairman Mark Lehenbauer. “Soybeans are grown right here in Missouri, and they provide a high-quality, nutritious option for families looking for practical, affordable food choices.”
Soy ingredients deliver high-quality plant-based protein, healthy oil, and essential fatty acids with health benefits that are supported by decades of research. From tofu and edamame to soymilk and soybean oil (often labeled as vegetable oil), soy delivers nutrition, and may support heart health, brain health, skin health, and blood sugar management.
Soy can be used in a variety of ways, including in beverages, sauces, baked goods, and main dishes. It also can be paired with other protein sources to help round out meals, offering flexibility for different eating styles and preferences.
Missouri farmers grow approximately 5.7 million acres of soybeans each year. Many use practices such as crop rotation, soil conservation, and water management to support long-term production. This means choosing soy supports both personal and planetary health.
Throughout April, Missouri Soybeans will share recipes, meal ideas, and nutrition information on its website and social media channels to help consumers explore new ways to use soy at home.