Soybeans are native to Australia, Africa and Asia. They have become increasingly popular in the United States due to their many nutrients, such as protein, fiber, and calcium. Growing soybeans requires full sun and warm weather, plus a soil rich in nitrogen and plenty of water.

If growing soybeans is not part of your business plan, you can still add this nutritious crop to your food business. There are a variety of soybean products out there, including soybean oil, health and beauty products, and more. Before you enter the soybean market, ask yourself the following:

1. Do you want to purchase soybean seed in order to grow soybeans on your own?

2. Would you prefer to buy soybeans from soybean farms and distributors?

3. Do you want to focus on other soybean products, such as soybean oil?

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Grow your own soybeans

Soybeans are relatively easy to grow and harvest. Like other beans, soybeans are susceptible to pests and bacterial and wilt disease, so take precautionary measures to ensure healthy soybean plants. When purchasing soybean seeds, choose ones that will grow best in your soil and climate conditions, just as you would any other plant.

I recommend: Delta and Pine Land Company is a leading supplier of soybean seeds and cotton seeds. Dairyland Seed is another great source for soybean seeds. Just select your state and desired maturity to ensure you get the product you seek.

Choose from soybean production companies and farms across the country

Quality soybeans can be had even without growing them on your own. Research the many soybean farms and distributors out there, and choose ones that seem to be able to provide you with the best product in the timeframe you need.

I recommend: The Chambers Family Farm offers soybeans that have not been genetically modified. SK Food International is a wholesaler of many products, including black and yellow soybeans.

Consider offering soybean oil and other soybean products

Soybean oil is used by the food industry for cooking and can be found in food products such as salad dressings, mayonnaise, snack foods and coffee creamers.

I recommend: Whole Harvest offers soybean oil; you can even watch a video on the benefits of soybean oil on the company’s website. SoyWorld provides a comprehensive list of soy product manufacturers divided in categories such as Pens, Body Care and Waxes.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  There is plenty of information on soybeans online to help you learn about growing soybeans. Also ask your local nursery or local farmer for helpful tips.
• •  Order a small quantity of soybeans or soybean products as your first shipment, and look for the best soybean prices possible from leading distributors. You want to be sure customers are interested in the product before you invest too much money into it.