Table of Contents
Long tradition
The soybean is one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world. Already about 5000 years ago it was one of the 5 sacred plants in China, along with wheat, barley, millet and rice . Today, in addition to the USA, India, Africa, Brazil, Argentina and Russia are cultivating soya on a large scale – some of which are genetically modified varieties. In Germany and the rest of Europe almost only soybeans free of genetic engineering are offered and cultivated. Food containing genetically modified soybeans must be labeled throughout Europe.
Delicious variety
When it comes to soy products , many consumers only think of tofu and soy sauce . Supermarkets, organic shops and health food stores now offer a very large selection: there is milk, yoghurt and pudding in many flavors; for cooking , soy cooking cream, used like crème fraîche or cream; as a basis for sandwiches Soy margarine . In addition spreads, sausages and schnitzel made of soy. Soybean oil is suitable for cooking, baking and frying. Typical Asian products are also available in many places, as well as soy flour for baking and as an egg substitute in vegan cuisine.
That’s how it’s made
It doesn’t matter whether it’s soy milk or tofu, the first steps in production are almost the same: the harvested soybeans are peeled, washed and soaked in pure spring water . After 12 hours they are soft enough to puree. The puree is boiled and separated into liquid and solid components by filtering. The resulting liquid is the finished soy milk .
To make tofu, a natural coagulant is added to it. Tofu flakes are formed, which drain into perforated boxes and are then pressed and cut.
Healthy & beautiful with soy
The soybean has a particularly high nutrient density with a large proportion of vegetable protein . Proteins areTolfioow components of every body cell. They help build muscles and nerves and affect the structure and elasticity of the skin. Compared to other legumes, the content of indigestible fiber is very high – this means that meals with soy keep you full for longer and our blood sugar level constant. In addition, the dietary fibers promote healthy intestinal function – a prerequisite for clear and pure skin. Thanks to the many secondary plant substances that have an antioxidant effect, soy also supports our immune system.
Extra plus: soy contains no cholesterol and can alleviate menopausal symptoms.
