Production & Composition of a soybean
Soybeans are a major crop in Nebraska, and are grown primarily in the eastern, southern and central parts of the state. Nebraska is one of the top soybean producing states in the United States, and is known for its high-yielding soybean varieties. The state is also a leading producer of soybean meal and oil, which are used in a wide range of food and industrial products. Nebraska's soybean industry is supported by a strong infrastructure, including a network of elevators and processing plants, as well as good transportation links to markets both within the U.S. and internationally.
A soybean is primarily composed of protein, oil and carbohydrates. The protein content of soybeans ranges from 35-57%, with the remainder of the bean made up of carbohydrates (about 20-30%) and oil (about 18-24%). The protein in soybeans is considered to be a high-quality protein, as it contains all of the essential amino acids that the human body needs. The oil content of soybeans is primarily composed of polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which are considered to be healthy fats. The carbohydrate content of soybeans is mostly made up of complex carbohydrates, such as sugars and starches. Additionally, soybeans are a good source of dietary fiber, vitamins and minerals, such as potassium, calcium, and magnesium.
• Nebraska ranks 4th in soybean production in the United States with 350 million bushels produced in 2021.*
• Livestock and poultry in Nebraska used the meal from more than 28 million bushels of Nebraska soybeans.
• A 60-pound bushel of soybeans yields about 48 pounds of protein rich meal and 11 pounds of oil.
• 1 bushel of soybeans can make 1.5 gallons of biodiesel.
