Free soybean testing program highlights US crop value worldwide
U.S. soybean farmers have an opportunity to showcase the quality of their crop through the Annual Soybean Quality Survey. The program is funded by the Soy Checkoff and allows farmers to submit a sample from their 2026 soybean harvest at no cost.
The survey has been documenting the quality of U.S. soybeans since 1986. Information gathered through the project helps provide a clear picture of soybean quality across different growing regions and supports international marketing efforts for U.S. soybeans.
Researchers analyze each sample to measure important traits such as protein content, oil value, and overall composition. Farmers who participate receive a personalized report detailing the quality of their own crop.
The survey is led by researchers at the University of Minnesota and plays an important role in helping global customers understand the value of U.S.-grown soybeans. The data collected is used to demonstrate the consistency and quality of American soybeans in competitive international markets.
"Every sample a farmer sends in makes our picture of U.S. soybean quality more complete," said Dr. Seth Naeve, professor of agronomy and plant genetics at the University of Minnesota. "That information travels with our crop to customers around the world and helps them understand the real value of what American farmers grow."
Farmers are encouraged to include information about the seed company and soybean variety they planted. This helps researchers identify varieties that deliver strong value and performance for customers around the world.
Participation is simple. Farmers can request a free sample kit, follow the instructions provided, and return their sample by Oct. 21, 2026. Early submissions help ensure that all soybean-growing regions are represented in the survey results.
Participants will receive their personalized reports by mid-December, while the complete survey report will be released in January 2027. Individual results remain confidential, and only combined data is included in the public report.
"Taking a few minutes to send in a sample is one of the easiest ways to invest in the reputation of U.S. soy," said Cindy Pulskamp, a USB farmer-leader from North Dakota. "It costs nothing, and it helps every soybean farmer compete in markets here and abroad."
The survey provides farmers with an easy way to contribute to the success of the soybean industry while helping strengthen the reputation of U.S. soy in domestic and export markets. By sharing harvest samples, growers can support efforts that promote American soybeans as a high-quality and reliable product worldwide.
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