3 minute read
Growing Appreciation for Illinois Soy
Illinois soybean farmers had yet another successful growing season in 2023, with the total harvest coming in at approximately 648.9 million bushels. As the top soybean-producing state, Illinois is well positioned to invest in enhancing the appeal and demand for its soy, fostering further growth in the industry.
Whether it’s pigs, cows, poultry or fish, the animal agriculture industry is soy’s largest customer, and that's for good reason. The nutritional profile of soybeans is a primary driver behind their popularity. Packed with high-quality protein, essential amino acids, healthy fats, and a variety of vitamins and minerals, soybeans present a consistent and sustainable feed option for poultry and livestock producers. This nutrient-dense package supports both the growth and health of animals and the quality of meat, milk and eggs produced.
Soybeans comprise 80 percent meal and 20 percent oil, and 98 percent of that meal produced in Illinois is used to feed poultry and livestock. Consumers are becoming more and more interested in biofuels and other products derived from soybean oil, so the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA) is tapping into markets with a need for soybean meal to ensure Illinois farmers continue to get the most out of their investments. Moreover, as the demand for soy rises, maintaining a competitive and sustainable soy supply becomes increasingly important.
To meet this challenge, farmers across Illinois are embracing innovation. Common sustainability practices including conservation tillage, precision agriculture and crop rotation not only promote soil health but also contribute to reducing environmental impact, actively fostering a more sustainable agricultural ecosystem.
Illinois' success in soybean production is often credited to the fertile soils that cover our state. But the genuine catalysts behind this success are the dedicated farmers who serve as diligent stewards of the land. Ninety-six percent of Illinois farms are family-owned and operated. Many have been handed down through generations, carrying with them a wealth of knowledge and a deep passion for producing a high-quality product.
However, this success doesn’t just include soybeans. One-third of those family-owned farms include livestock, with many producing both row crops and livestock. These farm families dedicate their time to ensuring their livestock are not just produced but raised with a sense of responsibility and care. This responsibility encompasses all facets of raising livestock, including choosing soybean meal, whether it's been produced on their own land or in a neighboring county. In doing so, the public can be confident that the meat they purchase at the grocery store or the farmer’s market is of the highest quality. The connection between soybeans and animal agriculture is essential to foster a nourishing future for both farmers and communities.
