INVESTING CHECKOFF DOLLARS
PEACE BEGINS
WITH FOOD
S OY B E A N I N D U ST RY ' S ‘ P R OT E I N - F I R ST ’ A P P R OAC H M O ST E F F E C T I V E WAY TO F E E D WO R L D S U STA I N A B LY BY AARON PUTZE, APR
W
hile America’s farmers are competitive, the products they produce can be complementary to nourishing the entire global population – both developing and developed economies. In some areas of the world, populations facing economic challenges do not have a choice. And with those people in mind, organizations such as the United Soybean Board (USB) and the World Initiative for Soy in Human Health team up to help ensure that affordable high-quality protein, such as soy, has a place in their daily diets. That’s the take of the USB regarding protein and its place on the plate. It’s also the rallying cry of a new initiative unveiled by USB in October at the World Food Prize celebration held in Des Moines.
20 | DECEMBER 2019 | IASOYBEANS.COM
“U.S. farmers understand that feeding the world falls primarily on their shoulders,” says Polly Ruhland, USB’s CEO. “That’s because protein is the foundation of a quality diet.” Conducted in partnership with the U.S. Soybean Export Council, American Soybean Association (ASA) and World Initiative for Soy in Human Health, the “Protein First” initiative reinforces the critical role U.S. soybeans play in attaining global food security. A reliable supply of high-quality protein, soybean leaders say, is a powerful source of nutrition for people, animals and economic growth. The subject is near and dear to Ruhland’s heart. The Eisenhower Fellow accepted USB’s top post in
2017 after almost seven years as CEO of the Cattlemen’s Beef Promotions and Research Board. “Soy is the ideal direct source of protein for people because it is readily available and sustainably produced,” says Ruhland. “It contributes to protein provided in many commonly consumed foods found in our local grocery stores as well as new dietary choices gaining popularity.” The initiative will communicate the benefits of U.S. soybeans as a complete plant protein. Containing an adequate proportion of each of the nine essential amino acids necessary in the human diet, it serves not only as a primary source for high-quality animal feed, but also a growing source of protein for people.
