Soy is an annual legume that produces an edible bean containing a high content of protein (40 - 50%) and oil (20%). Because of the composition of its amino acid soy, is a good source of protein for human nutrition (for example via tofu and tempeh), but it is also highly suitable for animal feed.

Soy oil is one of the most widely consumed vegetable oils globally. The greater part of the world’s soy production is used as animal feed. Because of its high yield of protein per hectare (1.5 – 3.0 tonnes/hectare) and its good fatty acid composition, soy has a very favourable price-quality ratio in comparison with other sources of protein.