Why Eat Soy?
More and more people are adopting a plant-based diet and seeking to diversify their sources of protein. Among the many sources of plant-based protein, soy stands out for its many benefits, which is why this legume has been consumed for millennia in Asia and for centuries in the West.
In France, vegetarians and vegans consume the most of it—that is, as much as people in Asia.
What are the nutritional benefits of soy?
Soy is a source of complete protein, which means it provides all the essential amino acids our bodies need . Soy also has other benefits, as it is a good source of iron, calcium, B vitamins, dietary fiber, and antioxidants.
What are soy isoflavones?
Soy isoflavones are substances found naturally in soy and soy-based products. They are considered “phytoestrogens” because they resemble female hormones. Scientific studies suggest that these compounds may alleviate certain menopausal symptoms and reduce certain heart risks. However, the benefits and risks associated with high consumption are not yet clear. This has led some health agencies to recommend consumption limits.
Do soy isoflavones pose a health risk?
The isoflavone content of soy varies widely depending on the location and method of cultivation, preparation, and the changes caused by digestion. This makes it difficult to predict the effect of soy consumption on the body. In France, ANSES has established a maximum daily intake of 1 mg of isoflavones per kilogram of body weight. Considering the average isoflavone content per 100 g of food[1] and the average body weight of adults in France[2], it is clear that staying within the limit set by ANSES is compatible with consuming 275 g of tofu per day for women and 350 g per day for men (equivalent to about three daily servings). Beyond this limit, ANSES does not indicate a risk but notes uncertainty regarding the safety of higher consumption. In practice, such daily amounts are incompatible with a varied diet and are therefore not observed.
. Internationally, the consensus is that soy is safe and that its consumption is associated with health benefits.
Is consuming soy really environmentally friendly?
The use of soy protein in plant-based meat alternatives offers significant environmental benefits. Unlike some other plant-based protein sources, the production of European soy does not contribute to deforestation.
European soy protein is produced from non-GMO ( genetically modified organism) varieties, thereby addressing the concerns of many consumers regarding GMOs.
What are the characteristics of the soy used in plant-based meat alternatives?
Soy proteins are known for their ability to mimic the texture of meat. They can be processed into a wide variety of products—such as steaks, sausages, ground meat, and many others—that closely resemble meat in texture. This sensory similarity makes it possible to offer these products without adding texturizers.
In addition, soy proteins have little vegetable aftertaste or undesirable flavors. They can therefore be easily prepared to suit everyone’s taste preferences.
Soy protein has become a staple in plant-based meat alternatives thanks to its many benefits. Nutritionally, it is a complete protein rich in essential nutrients. From an environmental perspective, European soy does not contribute to deforestation, and the protein comes from non-GMO varieties. Finally, from a sensory perspective, soy protein can replicate the texture of meat without the need for added texturizers. The growing use of soy protein in plant-based meat alternatives will undoubtedly play a major role in the transition toward a more sustainable and environmentally friendly diet.
HappyVore soy-based matchsticks reduce the carbon footprint by 76% compared to their meat-based counterparts, and HappyVore strips reduce it by 71%.
[1] U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. 2015.USDA Database for the Isoflavone Content of Selected Foods, Release 2.1. Nutrient Data Laboratory.
[2] National Institute of Statistics and Economic Studies (INSEE), Thibaut de Saint Pol, Household Living Conditions Division,“Body Image and Social Belonging: Body Weight in Europe,” 2006
[3] Life Cycle Assessment conducted by the independent firm AgroSolutions in 2022
