New Uses

Soybeans are a versatile crop that makes its appearance in everything from pies to paints. According to a 2019 USDA report, biobased products contributed $459 billion to the U.S. economy in 2016 (a 17% increase from 2014) and supported 4.6 million jobs. The report’s research team estimates the reduction of fossil fuels and associated GHG emissions from biobased products is equivalent to approximately 12 million metric tons of carbon dioxide prevented in 2016. Soybeans offer manufacturers a way to replace petroleum-based materials in a sustainable, environmentally friendly way.

Longer wearing asphalt
A new soy-based concrete durability enhancer is protecting roadways in the U.S. — supporting demand for soybeans and reducing maintenance costs for U.S. infrastructure.

More efficient cleaner motor oil
For a more renewably sourced motor oil for your vehicle, try the new high oleic high-performing biobased synthetic motor oil. In testing, the oil provided improved fuel efficiency and cleaner engines when compared to the petroleum-based oil previously used.

Tires with better traction
Soybean oil is leading the way to greener tires with improved performance. Goodyear has introduced tires made with soybean oil that improve your traction in inclement weather.

A sustainable source for artificial turfs

United Soybean Board photo

The first USDA-certified, bio-based artificial turf uses soy technology which reduces water use and lowers landfill impact through the product’s extended life cycle. Plus, the product is 100 percent recyclable.

The house that soy built
Building companies are enjoying the versatility of soybean uses in home materials. Several new products include formaldehyde-free plywood panels, a roof-rejuvenating spray treatment, a soy-based stain line, and an environmentally friendly insulation.

Shoes made with soy
Soybean oil showed it could improve tire flexibility across temperatures and enhance traction in rainy and snowy weather conditions. Skechers was paying attention. The footwear company now uses the same technology to deliver grip, stability and durability for select models of their running shoes.

United Soybean Board photo

Sitting on soybeans
Ford Motor Company uses soybean-based foam in its seat cushions, seat backs, and headrests of every vehicle built in North America. Ford now also licenses its soy-based flexible foam to John Deere for seating materials in tractors, riding mowers, and other equipment.

That’s just a sampling and there’s more innovative uses created each year. Find more at https://soynewuses.org, or check out the Soy Products Guide which provides a listing of more than 1,000 items currently on the market.