Glycine max

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colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Soybean
File:Soybean field.jpg
Soybean field at maturity
colspan=2 style="min-width:15em; text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Scientific classification
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Species	Template:Taxonomy/Glycine G. max
colspan=2 style="text-align: center; background-color: transparent" | Binomial name
Template:Taxonomy/Glycine Glycine max (L.) Merr.

Glycine max, commonly known as soybean, is a species of legume native to East Asia, widely grown for its edible bean, which has numerous uses. The plant is classified in the genus Glycine, and is one of the most important crops in the world due to its versatility and high protein content.

Description

Glycine max is an annual plant that varies in growth and habit. The plant can reach heights of more than 2 meters, but most commercial varieties are bred to be shorter for mechanical harvesting. It is a bushy, leguminous plant with hairy leaves and small, inconspicuous flowers. The fruit is a hairy pod that grows in clusters of three to five, each pod containing two to four seeds.

Cultivation

Soybeans are grown in a variety of climates and soils. They require a good amount of moisture and prefer warm temperatures. The crop is typically planted in the spring and harvested in the autumn. It is a major crop in countries such as the United States, Brazil, and Argentina, as well as in its native region of East Asia.

Uses

Soybeans are incredibly versatile and can be used in a wide range of products. They are a crucial source of protein for animal feed and human consumption. Soybean oil is extracted and used in food products and industrial applications. The beans are also processed into numerous food products including tofu, soy milk, tempeh, and soy sauce. Additionally, soybeans are used in the production of biofuels, particularly biodiesel.

Nutritional Value

Soybeans are rich in protein and contain all of the essential amino acids. They are also a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals such as iron and calcium. However, they also contain phytates, which can interfere with the absorption of these minerals.

Genetic Modification

A significant proportion of the soybean crop grown today has been genetically modified for various traits, including resistance to pests and herbicides. This has led to controversies regarding genetically modified organisms (GMOs), their safety, and their impact on the environment and human health.

Environmental Impact

While soybeans are a valuable crop, their cultivation can have negative environmental impacts. Large-scale soybean farming, particularly in tropical regions like the Amazon, has been linked to deforestation and loss of biodiversity. Sustainable farming practices and regulations are critical to mitigating these impacts.

See Also

• Legume
• Protein (nutrient)
• Agriculture
• Genetically modified food controversies