Soy Makes Good Meals Better

In order to meet U.S. Dietary Guidelines, today's school meals must be low in fat, high in complex carbohydrates and rich in the vitamins, minerals and nutrients needed for good health. One great-tasting way to cut fat and increase overall nutrients from some main dish favorites is to enhance them with soy protein.

It's Soy Good!

Soy protein comes from soybeans - part of the legume family that also includes peas and lentils. Essentially, soy protein is created by removing the oil and carbohydrates from soybeans.

Adding soy protein to beef, pork, poultry or fish lowers fat, adds juiciness and maintains flavor. Soy-enhanced meats usually contain about 30 percent soy protein and 70 percent meat. However, if your district offers vegetarian entrees, you might find all-soy foods on the menu.

If you want to try soy foods at home, look in your grocer's freezer case. Many carry all vegetarian hamburger patties or sausages that are soy protein-based. Many reduced-fat frozen entrees now contain soy concentrate. Another easy way to try a soy-enhanced food is to buy reduced-fat peanut butter. Some major brands use soy protein to lower the fat while keeping the flavor.

Soy - It's Nutrition in a Bean!

Because soy protein ingredients are low in fat and sodium and cholesterol-free, they are a nutrition-packed way to reduce fat and maintain protein levels when combined with meat. According to nutrition experts, the protein found in soy equals the quality of protein found in meat and milk. Although you won't find textured soy protein on the menu alone, a look at its nutrient profile shows how it can cut fat. Compare one-half cup soy protein with ground beef:

	One-half cup cooked textured soy protein	One-half cup cooked ground beef
Calories	59.00	157.00
Protein*	11.00	15.60
Carbohydrates*	7.00	0.00
Fat*	0.20	10.00
Saturated Fat*	0.00	3.95

*Measurements are in grams

Now That's Using Your Bean!

So now you know the secrets of soy: Soy-enhanced meats can make your old favorites even better! Based on new research, scientists are excited about the potential for soyfoods to decrease the risk of heart disease and support better bone health. So go ahead, use your bean and give soy a try!