Soybean

Soybeans, also known as Glycine max, are a legume native to East Asia and have been a significant part of the Asian diet for thousands of years. Nowadays, they are mainly cultivated in Asia, South America, and North America. In Asia, soybeans are typically consumed whole, while in Western countries, highly processed soybean products are more common.

Various soybean products are available, such as soy flour, soybean protein, tofu, soybean milk, soybean sauce, and soybean oil. Soybeans are rich in antioxidants and phytonutrients, which have been linked to various health benefits. However, concerns have also been raised about possible harmful effects.