Soybeans are one of the most important crops in the world. They are considered a very nutritious "miracle crop", it is therefore normal that this precious seed is known and consumed all over the world. However, soybean meal, which also has enormous benefits, is not as well known among the public.
In this article, you will learn the difference between soybeans and soybean meal (Cake)
Before we start, it is good to know that soybean seeds are used to produce many derivatives, which are sometimes consumed by humans, and sometimes used in animal feed. When we look at the WWF report on soybean production, we learn that 70% of the soy produced in the world is used for animal feed. According to the USDA, the world produces about 290 million tons of soybeans per year. At the same time, still according to the USDA, it is estimated that an average of 190 to 200 million tons of soybean meal is produced, 98% of which is used for animal feed.
So what is the difference between soybean and soybean meal (soybean cake)?
The difference is that soybean corresponds to the whole yellow seed, while soybean meal (cake) is a product derived from soybean seeds, which is obtained by a pressure-extrusion process, where we triturate and grind soybeans to extract the oil. Once the oil has been extracted, we obtain a residue that is fatty and rich in protein, which is called soybean meal or cake.
One metric ton of soybeans contains about 170-200 kg of oil, the rest (700-800 kg) being soy protein which can be used as a meal.
Soybean meal (Cake) is commonly used in animal feed for its high protein content. Nevertheless, both soybean and soybean meal uses are complementary and go hand in hand. Indeed, the production of soybean meal for livestock is the result of the production of another soybean by-product: soybean oil, which is intended for human consumption. According to global soybean trade data published by the Nature Conservancy, 85% of global soybeans are used to make soybean oil (for humans) and then meal (for animals).
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