Soybean oilseed refers to the whole, mature seed of the soybean plant (Glycine max), cultivated primarily for oil extraction and protein-rich meal. As one of the world’s most important oilseeds, soybeans are a cornerstone of both the edible oil industry and animal feed production. The oil extracted from soybeans is widely used in cooking, food processing, and industrial applications, while the remaining meal is a vital protein source for livestock and aquaculture. High in essential fatty acids and plant-based protein, soybeans are also used in the production of plant-based foods and functional nutrition products.
Soybean oilseed is a multifunctional crop with wide industrial and nutritional uses: