Soy: A Potential Allergen

Soy is an ingredient that is being added to an increasing number of products; everything from food to clothes to makeup may now contain soy or soy-based ingredients. It is important to understand what soy is, where it comes from, and possible side effects of soy to be able to make the best decision for your health when purchasing products containing soy.

Written by Vanessa Davids, Green Health Research Contributor

What Is Soy & Where Does Soy Come From?

Soybeans, like peanuts, are legumes. They are very bushy plants and the beans themselves have hairy pods. Originally found in Asia, they have been cultivated in that area for thousands of years, and have recently begun to be grown in US and other countries. The United States, Brazil, and Argentina are the top growers of soybeans. Recently, the US has overtaken all other producers of soybeans, and now the US yearly produces about 300 million bushels of soybeans, one-third more than in China, who imports the most soybeans worldwide.

Soybeans form the base of tofu, miso, and many other types of Asian food. Very high in protein, soy is used as a replacement for meat by many vegetarians and other seeking alternative protein sources. Soybeans can also be ground into flour which contains very little starch, and so is widely used as a thickener in ‘diet’ foods. Soybean oil can also be extracted from the plant, and is the bas for MSG, soy sauce, and many types of margarine. Soybean milk is also derived from the plant and used as milk-substitute for those with lactose intolerance.

How Is Soy Used In Cosmetics?

Soybean oil and other soy derivatives such as soy lecithin have many applications in cosmetics. They are used in cleansers and facial products for people with dry skin because soy can add a lot of oil to the skin. They are also used in anti-aging formulas because they increase the production of collagen, a natural wrinkle fighter, in your skin.

Soy derivatives are also used to help keep the ingredients in liquid or gel products from separating from one another. Soy is also used to help smooth uneven patches of skin, and to add the vitamins A & E to many makeup formulas.