By Jenny Carleo
As soybean harvest progresses across North Carolina, some producers may notice unusual discoloration on the seed coats of their harvested soybeans. Similar reports have emerged across several soybean producing states in 2026, raising questions about grain quality, marketing, and potential discounts at delivery. One issue receiving increased attention is Soybeans of Other Colors (SBOC). Although this discoloration does not necessarily indicate poor grain quality, it can affect how soybeans are classified and marketed.This post will explain why it happens, when it might impact soybean price and recommendations for producers when selling SBOC.
What is SBOC?
Soybeans of Other Colors (SBOC) is a superficial discoloration of the seed coat with a brown, grey or green color (not purple). It does not affect the quality of the seed, oil or protein, only the seed coat.
Why does this happen?
SBOC is linked to seed genetics combined with environmental conditions during the growing season: hot, dry weather early on, followed by wet weather during grain fill and maturation. Some, but not all, SBOC appears to be linked to Enlist E3® traited soybeans. SBOC does not occur every year with every Enlist E3® variety. Rather the seed coat of some soybeans can become discolored under unfavorable environmental conditions. It is not caused by any kind of heat or disease damage to the seed.
Source : ncsu.edu