A species of legume known as the soybean (Glycine max.) has been domesticated for thousands of years and is well known as a staple food in many civilizations all over the world.
A species of legume known as the soybean (Glycine max.) has been domesticated for thousands of years and is well known as a staple food in many civilizations all over the world. On account of its high nutritional content, it is best compared to meat. It is also able to compete with the rising prices of meat in Pakistan. It is the best alternative to meat for people. It is considered modern meat.
The modern meat soybean, well known for its high protein content, is indigenous to East Asia. Currently, the top two producers of soybeans in the world are the United States and Brazil. In Pakistan, there is going to be a revolution in agriculture.
Soybean, a complete protein:
Soybeans are considered a complete protein because they contain all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own and must be obtained through our diet.
The nine essential amino acids are:
1. Histidine
2. Isoleucine
3. Leucine
4. Lysine
5. Methionine
6. Phenylalanine
7. Threonine
8. Tryptophan
9. Valine
Nutritional Value of Soybeans:
According to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, you should consume 10 to 35 percent of your daily calories as protein. On a 2,000-calorie diet, that translates to between 50 and 175 grams of protein per day. For both men and women, 46 grams of protein per day is the recommended dietary allowance.
FATS: There are about 9 g of fat per 100 g of soybeans, or 12% of the total calorie content.
FIBERS: Around 8 g of fibers, or 32% of the total amount of carbohydrates, are present.
PROTEINS: In 100 grammes of cooked soybeans, 36 grams of proteins are present. In addition to all of this, it also supplies a variety of micronutrients such as vitamins, iron, magnesium, and potassium.
SOY PROTEIN VERSUS MEAT PROTEIN:
Protein is a vital nutrient that is necessary for our bodies to develop, repair, and remain healthy.
It is well acknowledged that meat, especially fish, chicken, cattle, and mutton, is a good source of protein.
The protein content varies depending on the type of meat. For instance: beef has a protein content of 20–25% and is high in fat and cholesterol, especially in high-fat cuts like ribeye or T-bone steak, poultry has a protein content of 20–30%, fish has a protein content of 20–60%, and soybeans have a protein content of 35–40%.
In conclusion, although both soybeans and meat have significant levels of protein, soybeans have a higher protein content than some varieties of meat. Why soybean should be preferred to meat?
Health: soybeans are low in saturated fats and cholesterol and contain phytochemicals called isoflavones, which have been shown to have numerous health benefits. They have been found to reduce the risk of heart attacks by lowering LDL ( bad cholesterol) and improving blood vessel function.
Soybeans are a healthier alternative to meat because they are low in fat and free of cholesterol. This is a great option for those looking to reduce their fat and cholesterol intake.
Environmental advantage: the production of meat, especially beef, has a much larger carbon footprint compared to soybean farming. As the world’s population increases, the high demand for protein has led to deforestation, water pollution, a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, and other negative environmental impacts.
Less use of resources: Meat production also uses more resources, such as land, water, and energy. So by selecting the modern meat soybean, we may help reduce the impact on the environment and make sustainable food choices.
Disease prevention:
Cardiovascular diseases are caused by a high intake of saturated fatty acids present in meat. Colon and breast cancer risks would increase with increased consumption of red and processed meat. A diet high in animal protein would lead to type 2 diabetes, kidney disorders, and osteoporosis.
Diabetes type 2: Soybean consumption has been linked to reducing the risk of diabetes type 2. They can improve insulin sensitivity, which helps prevent type 2 diabetes.
VALUE ADDITION OF SOYBEAN:
Soybean oil is highly sought-after because of its neutral flavour, high smoke point, and heart-healthy fatty acid profile.
Soy proteins: Highly nutritious ingredients used to provide a variety of meat alternatives, such as tofu, tempeh, etc.
TOFU: It is known as soybean curd. It is made by coagulating soy milk and pressing the resulting curds into blocks. It is high in protein and is used in a number of dishes, from stir-fries to soups and salads.
Soy milk is a plant based alternative to dairy milk that is rich in proteins and calcium. It can be used as a base for a variety of food and beverage products, including coffee, smoothies, and baked goods.
Soy flour: It helps in the formation of bread, pasta, and crackers. Let’s introduce this meaty plant to our native Pakistan in light of everything we’ve covered thus far. Let’s utilise this wonderful masterpiece of nature.
CONCLUSION:
At the end, we can say that the modern meat soybean is a crop that can replace meat not only in its nutritional content but also in terms of its availability and cheap rates. So when Pakistan is facing inflation and food insecurity.