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The Growing Need for Proteins and the Role of US Identity Preserved Soy

Written by Nicole Atchison | Feb 24, 2025 6:47:43 PM

Discover how US Identity Preserved Soy is addressing the escalating global protein demand with superior quality and sustainability.

The Skyrocketing Global Demand for Protein

In today's world, the demand for protein is skyrocketing. As the global population grows, so does the need for sustainable and nutritious food sources. Several factors, including population growth, greater access to protein-rich foods, and the rising popularity of high-protein diets, drive this increasing demand for protein.

When PURIS was founded in 1985, the global population was approximately 4.85 billion. Fast-forward to today, and that number has nearly doubled by 2024, leading to a corresponding increase in protein consumption. From 2000 to 2024, global population increased roughly 32% while protein consumption increased by 40%. Protein consumption is currently outpacing population growth, a trend that is expected to continue. By 2034, the global protein market is projected to grow from $12 billion to $27 billion, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.5%.

Why Plant Proteins Are Gaining Popularity

As protein demand continues to rise, consumers are becoming more conscious of where their food comes from and the quality of their protein. Plant proteins have gained popularity due to their perceived health benefits and sustainability.

Among plant proteins, soy protein stands out as a frontrunner. It offers high protein quality, large-scale production capabilities, and cost-effectiveness, making it a key player in meeting the growing protein demand.

Source: McKinsey & Company

Challenges Faced by Conventional Soybeans

One significant challenge in soybean production is the role of genetically modified (GM) soybeans. In 2024, 96% of US soybeans were genetically modified for herbicide resistance, the highest recorded percentage. While GM soybeans have contributed to increased yields and improved resistance to pests and diseases, they have also shifted focus away from food qualities such as protein content. This shift has resulted in a decline in the nutritional value of soybeans, which is a concern for both consumers and food manufacturers.

Source: USDA Economic Research Service

Another challenge is the emphasis on increasing yield. Over the last 20 years, soybean yield has increased by 15 bushels per acre. While this is a positive development in production efficiency, it has come at the cost of protein content. The focus on maximizing yield has often overshadowed the importance of maintaining high protein levels, leading to a trade-off between quantity and quality.

Source: USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service

However, US soybeans' protein content has declined over the past two decades despite their potential. The national average soybean protein content has fallen by 1.5% and is currently 1-2% lower than that of Brazil, the largest exporter of soybeans.

This decline in protein content affects manufacturing yield, product quality, and the attributes consumers seek in their food.

The Benefits of US Identity Preserved Specialty Soy

This is where U.S. Identity Preserved (IP) Soy comes into play. U.S. IP Soy represents a commitment to quality, safety, traceability, and sustainability. Unlike conventional soybeans, U.S. IP Soy varieties are bred for higher protein content and specific quality attributes that meet the needs of food manufacturers. There are over 300 specialty soy varieties with significantly higher protein content than conventional GM varieties, and these food-grade soy varieties now grow on over 2 million acres in the U.S. annually.

Source: USSEC Specialty Soy Database

Ensuring Quality and Traceability from Farm to Fork

US Food Grade Identity Preserved (IP) Soybeans represent the gold standard in quality, safety, traceability, and sustainability. These premium soybeans are bred from exclusive varieties selected for their superior attributes, including size, color, flavor, composition, and protein content.

From farm to fork, US Food Grade IP Soybeans are meticulously grown, processed, and stored separately to maintain their unique qualities and ensure traceability. Each lot is tracked from the field to the final product, providing a transparent and verifiable supply chain. Third-party organizations such as the FDA and USDA rigorously inspect and verify these soybeans, ensuring they meet the highest safety and quality standards.

US Food Grade IP Soybeans are produced under forward contracts, guaranteeing availability and consistency. Growers receive premiums to maintain segregation and quality. This commitment to sustainable practices benefits the environment and ensures a steady supply of high-quality soybeans for the market.

In conclusion, PURIS soybeans exemplify the gold standard of US Food-Grade Identity Preserved (IP) Soybeans. Through exclusive varieties, meticulous farm-to-fork processes, and rigorous lot traceability, they meet the highest quality, safety, and sustainability standards. Verified by third-party organizations, PURIS US IP soybeans offer a reliable and premium solution for food manufacturers and consumers, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality soybeans to meet the growing global demand for protein.

If you're looking for premium food-grade soybeans that meet the highest quality, safety, and sustainability standards, look no further than PURIS soybeans. Contact us today to learn more about how PURIS soybeans can meet your needs and help you deliver the best products to your customers.