How soybeans took over the American diet – without anyone noticing

By: Edward D. Melillo, The Conversation

Outlets: Arkansas Advocate

Published: September 18, 2026

Words: 1,272

Last Updated: 7 hours, 8 minutes ago


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U.S. farmers will produce a record-breaking harvest of 4.52 billion bushels of soybeans in 2026, according to projections from the U.S. Department of Agriculture. At 60 pounds to the bushel, that is roughly 800 pounds of soybeans for every American.

Most people don’t think of themselves as soybean consumers. Few sit down to a plate of soybeans, but soy is hiding in plain sight throughout the American diet. Soybean oil …

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