United Soybean Board
When thinking about their seed selections, most farmers focus on achieving higher yields. While they know that better varieties can lead to more yield and profit, they may not realize how easily they can improve their competitiveness by looking a few columns to the right in their seed guide, at the “protein and oil grain quality” ratings.
“We all know that selecting varieties is the best way to achieve higher yields, says Mike Staton, a soybean educator at Michigan State University (MSU) Extension. “But it’s also the best way to achieve higher protein.”
The protein content in U.S. soy is important to maintain market share within animal agriculture.
According to Staton and the MSU performance reports, protein content can vary by as much as 7 percent from one variety to another.
“Seven percent is absolutely huge,” says Staton. “The magic is finding a variety with the best yield that also provides higher protein.”
Some farmers may wonder why protein is important, since they are paid for bushels not protein.
“While soybean farmers are not paid for protein, they need to think about our buyers,” Staton explains. “International buyers are asking for more protein. If farmers don’t pay attention to their protein, they may lose markets. China has established a 35 percent protein, 19 percent oil standard. If U.S. soybean farmers are not meeting their needs, they will get their soybeans from elsewhere.”
Animal agriculture remains the No. 1 customer for U.S. soybean farmers, using 97 percent of U.S. soybean meal. And the food industry, the second-biggest user, uses nearly 70 percent of U.S. soybean oil. Keeping those customers happy is important to long-term profitability.
“Always remember what you’re raising,” said Staton. “You’re raising protein and oil, and you want to raise as much of it as you can. Look for high yield and quality when selecting varieties.”
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