Why is soybean quality a competitive issue in world markets?
Historically, South American soybeans have been higher in protein and oil content than average U.S. soybeans. That makes them more valuable to buyers when they are processed into soybean meal and oil. It is one more factor in a customer’s decision to buy. While the U.S. is at a competitive disadvantage with regard to protein and oil, preliminary studies indicate that U.S. soybeans might be superior in terms of amino acid content.