Soy Checkoff Champions Seed Oils During Soy Foods Month

As conversations around seed oils grow, U.S. soybean farmers can feel confident that their investment in the edible oils market is backed by strong, peer-reviewed science. Research continues to reaffirm the health benefits of seed oils, particularly soybean oil, emphasizing its value in the food industry and strengthening consumer trust in U.S. Soy.

This Soy Foods Month, the United Soybean Board is highlighting the essential role of soybean oil in American diets. This product continues to benefit consumer health and drive profitability for U.S. farmers.

“The Soy Checkoff invests to protect U.S. soybean farmers’ stake in the edible oils market and uphold the reputation of the healthfulness of soybean oil,” said Sara Stelter, United Soybean Board farmer-leader, Soy Nutrition Institute Global board member, and Wisconsin farmer. “Together with our partners, we’re working to reclaim the narrative around seed oils and make sure consumers have a correct understanding of decades of research supporting seed oils.”

Despite misinformation about seed oils, the Soy Checkoff is leading efforts to set the record straight. Through a strategic collaboration with Soy Nutrition Institute Global, the corn and canola commodity groups, and leading nutrition researchers, the checkoff is making sure the latest science-based findings are widely available.

In celebration of Soy Foods Month, it’s important to discuss the critical role soybean oil plays in the food supply. 45% of the soy oil market is used in cooking oils, baking, frying, salad dressings and margarine. Its versatility and affordability make it a top choice for both consumers and food manufacturers. 

Recent peer-reviewed studies coordinated by SNI Global published in the British Journal of Nutrition[1] and Nutrition Today confirm that seed oils high in unsaturated fatty acids — such as soybean oil — offer significant health benefits. Linoleic acid, the primary omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acid in soybean oil, has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. 

In addition, soybean oil has a qualified health claim backed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration that eating about 1½ tablespoons daily of soybean oil, which contains unsaturated fat, may reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.[2]

"Emerging research highlights the significant health benefits of seed oils, particularly those rich in the essential omega-6 fatty acid linoleic acid, such as soybean oil," said Dr. Mark Messina, MS, director of nutrition science and research for Soy Nutrition Institute Global. "These oils not only contribute to lowering cholesterol levels but also play a crucial role in reducing the risk of chronic diseases when included in a balanced diet. The evidence underscores their value as an important component of heart-healthy eating patterns."

In amplifying seed oil benefits and findings from these checkoff-funded manuscripts, USB secured top tier media coverage in NY Post, CBS News, EatingWell, Men’s Health and Good Housekeeping. SNI Global has also engaged 300+ health professionals who’ve cited the manuscript data in their blogs, newsletters, and speaking engagements. In addition, several fact sheets created, including Expert Q&A on seeds oils, Health risks of avoiding seed oils and 5 fascinating facts about seed oils, are all shareable resources.  

This Soy Foods Month, please share these resources to raise awareness about soybean oil’s role in a healthy diet. For more information visit sniglobal.org/seedoils.