December 11, 2007

US discovers sweeter soy varieties from Asia

US researchers discover new edamame soy varieties from Asia with higher levels of sugar, which is expected to suit the US market.

Geneticist Thomas Devine and researchers from Virginia State University and the Agricultural Research Service (ARS) found five breeds of soy that are sweeter than most types imported from Asia, which could prove a new healthy and oriental ingredient for food manufacturers.

Presently, US farmers are not growing the edamame soy. It is only being imported from Asian countries where it is a standard ingredient, Donald Comis, ARS public affairs specialist said.

Edamame refers to large, edible vegetable soy that are harvested before ripening. They are boiled then slipped out of their pods and can be eaten on their own or added to salads, stir-frys, soups and casseroles.

The researchers hope to encourage farmers to grow edamame soybean to meet the growing consumer trend for healthy food and foreign cuisine.

Devine has aimed his work at the organic market by constantly working with organic farmers and has researched soy that suits the sector.

He has approximately spent more than two decades breeding giant soy plants for livestock forage, and has now developed a giant variety of edamame called Moon Cake that is between five and six feet tall.

The giant size of the plant means that it can shade out and compete over weeds, no need for herbicides.

The giant edamame is in the process of being licensed to Epic Gardens, a small business that researches sustainable practices, develops markets for specialty crops and sells open-pollinated seeds.