Variation in Soybean Seed Quality Parameters: The Manitoba Advantage

Consumers are becoming increasing aware of the health benefits of eating soybeans and there is more interest in specific compounds in soybean that improve taste, functional characteristics and health benefits. Soybean grown in Eastern Canada have the reputation of having high protein concentration, lower oil content and superior seed quality, giving them a distinct advantage when competing for food-grade quality contracts. Food-grade soybean markets may require even more specific quality components in the future, and the country or province that can produce these compounds in higher quantities on a consistent basis will have a distinct marketing advantage. While a cooler climate can often lead to higher protein concentration, very little is known about the quality characteristics of Manitoba soybean. The climate and soil mineral composition may influence the quality of food-type soybeans in Manitoba.  In this trial, varieties of food-type soybeans grown in Manitoba and Ottawa will be examined for: selenium, iron and aluminum concentration, protein and oil concentration, seed components concentrations of: isoflavones, 11S:7S protein ratio, oil quantity, L-Glutamate and GABA (gamma amino butyric acid), lutein and vitamin E.