How is Soybean Oil made? The Actual Manufacturing Process

Soybean oil, a versatile vegetable oil extracted from soybeans, has become a staple in the global food industry. Its neutral flavour, high smoke point, and nutritional benefits have made it a popular choice for cooking, baking, and industrial applications.

In this article “How is soybean oil made?, we will delve into the process of making soybean oil, exploring the different methods used and the factors influencing its quality. We will also discuss the nutritional value of soybean oil and its various applications.

 Key Takeaways: How is Soybean Oil made? 

1. Soybean oil is extracted from soybeans.
2. It is a versatile oil used in cooking, baking, and industrial applications.
3. Soybean oil is a good source of unsaturated fatty acids and other nutrients.
4. The production process involves extraction, refining, and purification.
5. Soybean oil is produced sustainably through various initiatives.
6. Soybean meal and hulls are valuable byproducts of soybean oil production.
7. Consumers can support sustainable soybean oil production by choosing certified sustainable products.

The Story of Soybean Oil

Soybean oil has a long history dating back thousands of years to ancient China. It was primarily used for lighting and as a food source. In the 20th century, soybean oil production expanded significantly, driven by its versatility and nutritional value. Today, soybean oil is one of the world’s most widely used vegetable oils.

Rising popularity and health benefits

The rising popularity of soybean oil can be attributed to its nutritional benefits and versatility. It is a rich source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), essential for human health. These fatty acids have been linked to various health benefits, including:

• Heart health: Soybeans and soybean oil are plant-based sources of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease.
• Weight management: Soybeans and soybean oil are low in saturated fat and cholesterol, making them a healthy choice for people trying to manage their weight.
• Diabetes management: Some studies suggest that consuming soybeans and soybean oil may help improve blood sugar control in people with diabetes.

What is Soybean Oil?

Soybean oil is a vegetable oil extracted from the beans of the soybean plant (Glycine max). It is a light-coloured, odourless, and tasteless oil that is widely used in cooking and industrial applications.

Soybean oil is primarily composed of unsaturated fatty acids, including linoleic acid and oleic acid. These fatty acids are essential for human health and can help lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, soybean oil contains small amounts of saturated fat and other nutrients.

Nutritional Value

Nutrient	Amount per 100g
Calories	884 kcal
Total Fat	100 g
Saturated Fat	15 g
Monounsaturated Fat	23 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	58 g
Trans Fat	0 g
Cholesterol	0 mg
Sodium	0 mg
Vitamin E	8.2 mg (41% DV)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (ALA)	6.8 g
Omega-6 Fatty Acids	51 g

Soybean oil is a good source of essential fatty acids, particularly linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These fatty acids are important for heart health, brain development, and skin health.

Soybean oil is also a source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin E and phytosterols. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can help protect cells from damage, while phytosterols can help lower cholesterol levels.

It is important to note that soybean oil is a plant-based product and does not contain cholesterol. This makes it a healthy alternative to animal-based fats and oils.

How is Soybean Oil made? The Actual Process

So how is Soybean oil made exactly? The process of making soybean oil involves several key steps that turn raw soybeans into the refined oil commonly used in cooking, food products, and industrial applications. Here is a detailed explanation of how soybean oil is made:

1. Harvesting Soybeans

• Soybeans are grown and harvested when they are fully mature. Once collected, the beans are cleaned to remove dirt, debris, and other impurities.

2. Cleaning and Drying

• After harvesting, the soybeans are cleaned thoroughly to remove dust, stones, and any foreign materials.
• The soybeans are also dried to reduce moisture content, which ensures a smoother oil extraction process and longer storage life.

3. Crushing and Dehulling

• The clean, dried soybeans are sent through a series of crushers to break them into smaller pieces.
• The hulls, or outer shells of the soybeans, are then separated from the inner part of the bean (cotyledons). The hulls are usually removed because they do not contain oil and could interfere with the extraction process.
• The remaining cotyledons are processed further.

4. Conditioning and Flaking

• The soybeans are heated (conditioned) to around 160°F (71°C) to make them more pliable and help improve oil extraction.
• Once conditioned, the soybeans are passed through rollers to form thin flakes. These flakes have a larger surface area, which helps release the oil more efficiently during extraction.

5. Oil Extraction

• Solvent Extraction: The most common method for extracting oil from soybean flakes is using a solvent, typically hexane. The soybean flakes are washed with hexane in a large extractor. The solvent dissolves the oil from the flakes.
• The oil-laden solvent is then separated from the remaining soybean meal. This meal is used as animal feed or other by-products.
• Mechanical Pressing (Alternative): In smaller-scale production, mechanical pressing (also known as expeller pressing) can be used instead of solvents. This involves physically squeezing the oil from the soybean flakes using a mechanical press. However, this method yields less oil and is less common in industrial production.

6. Solvent Recovery

• After extraction, the mixture of oil and hexane (solvent) is distilled to separate the hexane from the oil. The hexane is recovered and reused in the process.
• The crude soybean oil is now ready for refining.

7. Degumming and Refining

• Degumming: The crude oil contains impurities like phospholipids and gums. In the degumming stage, hot water or acid is added to the oil, which causes the gums to separate from the oil. These gums are then removed.
• Refining: The degummed oil is refined to remove free fatty acids, color, and any remaining impurities. This is done through neutralization, bleaching, and deodorization.
  • Neutralization: A caustic soda (sodium hydroxide) solution is added to the oil, which neutralizes the free fatty acids.
  • Bleaching: The oil is passed through bleaching clay or activated carbon to remove pigments and other impurities.
  • Deodorization: Finally, the oil is heated under a vacuum to remove any unwanted odors or flavors.

8. Winterization (Optional)

• Some soybean oil undergoes a process called winterization, where the oil is cooled to remove any waxes or fats that would cause cloudiness at low temperatures. This step is common for oils used in salad dressings or other cold food products.

Modern Innovations in Soybean Oil Production

Technological Advancements

The soybean oil industry has witnessed significant technological advancements in recent years, leading to increased efficiency, sustainability, and improved product quality. Some key innovations include:

• Improved extraction methods: Advances in extraction technology have resulted in higher oil yields and reduced energy consumption.
• Genetic modification: Genetically modified soybean varieties have been developed to produce oil with specific properties, such as higher levels of omega-3 fatty acids or altered fatty acid profiles.
• Nanotechnology: Nanotechnology is being used to develop new applications for soybean oil, such as in coatings, adhesives, and biofuels.

These technological advancements have helped to make soybean oil production more efficient, sustainable, and versatile.

Sustainability Efforts

The soybean oil industry is also focusing on sustainability initiatives to minimize its environmental impact. Some of these efforts include:

• Sustainable farming practices: encouraging farmers to adopt sustainable farming practices, such as crop rotation and reduced pesticide use, can help to protect the environment and improve soil health.
• Reduced carbon footprint: Efforts are being made to reduce the carbon footprint of soybean oil production, including through improved energy efficiency and transportation practices.
• Byproduct utilization: The byproducts of soybean oil production, such as soybean meal, can be used as animal feed or for other purposes, reducing waste.

Quality Control and Grading of Soybean Oil

Industry Standards

Soybean oil is subject to various international and regional standards to ensure its quality and safety. These standards cover aspects such as:

• Physical properties: Colour, odour, taste, and texture.
• Chemical composition: fatty acid profile, free fatty acid content, and peroxide value.
• Contaminants: pesticide residues, heavy metals, and aflatoxins.
• Microbial quality: total plate count and presence of pathogens.

Some of the key industry standards for soybean oil include:

• Codex Alimentarius Standard for Edible Vegetable Oils: Sets global standards for edible oils, including soybean oil.
• European Union Regulation No. 178/2002: Establishes general food law within the European Union, which includes regulations for soybean oil.
• National standards: Individual countries may have their national standards for soybean oil, which may vary slightly from international standards.

Factors Affecting Oil Quality

Several factors can affect the quality of soybean oil, including:

• Raw material quality: The quality of the soybeans used for oil extraction significantly impacts the final product. Factors such as variety, ripeness, and storage conditions are crucial.
• Processing methods: The extraction, refining, and storage processes can influence the oil’s quality. Improper handling or storage can lead to degradation and contamination.
• Storage conditions: Soybean oil should be stored in cool, dark conditions to prevent oxidation and rancidity. Exposure to light and heat can accelerate deterioration.
• Adulteration: Soybean oil may be adulterated with other oils or foreign substances, which can affect its quality and safety.
• Transportation and handling: Proper transportation and handling practices are essential to prevent damage and contamination during the supply chain.

By adhering to industry standards and implementing proper quality control measures, soybean oil producers can ensure that their products meet the highest quality standards and are safe for consumption.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability of Soybean Oil

Byproduct Utilization

Soybean oil production generates various byproducts that can be utilized effectively, reducing waste and promoting sustainability. Some common soybean oil byproducts include:

Soybean Meal: A Nutritious Byproduct

Soybean meal is a valuable byproduct of soybean oil extraction. It is primarily composed of protein and fibre, making it a nutritious feed ingredient for livestock and poultry.

Nutritional Composition:

• Protein: Soybean meal is a rich source of protein, providing essential amino acids that are necessary for animal growth and development.
• Fibre: Soybean meal contains a significant amount of dietary fibre, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help regulate blood sugar levels.
• Other nutrients: Soybean meal also contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such as isoflavones, which have been linked to various health benefits.

Uses in Animal Feed:

• Livestock: Soybean meal is a common ingredient in feed for cattle, pigs, and sheep. It provides essential nutrients for their growth and productivity.
• Poultry: Soybean meal is also used in poultry feed, as it is a good source of protein and energy.
• Aquaculture: Soybean meal can be incorporated into feed for fish and shrimp, providing essential nutrients for their growth and development.

Benefits of Using Soybean Meal:

• Improved animal performance: Soybean meal can improve weight gain, feed efficiency, and reproductive performance in livestock and poultry.
• Enhanced nutrient absorption: The fibre in soybean meal can help improve nutrient absorption and digestion.
• Reduced environmental impact: By utilizing soybean meal as a feed ingredient, farmers can reduce their reliance on other protein sources, such as fishmeal, which may have a higher environmental impact.

Soybean Hulls: A Versatile Byproduct

Soybean hulls are the outer covering of the soybean. They are a byproduct of the soybean processing industry and can be used for various purposes.

Nutritional Composition:

• Fibre: Soybean hulls are a rich source of dietary fibre, including soluble and insoluble fibre.
• Other nutrients: Soybean hulls also contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Uses of soybean hulls:

• Animal feed: Soybean hulls can be used as a component of animal feed, providing fibre and other nutrients.
• Fermentation substrate: Soybean hulls can be used as a substrate for fermentation processes, such as the production of biofuels or other valuable products.
• Compost: Soybean hulls can be added to compost to improve soil quality and nutrient content.
• Industrial applications: Soybean hulls can be used in various industrial applications, such as papermaking and insulation.

Comparison with Other Vegetable Oils

Soybean oil is often compared to other vegetable oils, such as palm oil, rapeseed oil, and sunflower oil. While soybean oil is generally considered a sustainable option, its environmental impact can vary depending on factors such as land use practices, pesticide use, and water consumption.

Nutrient	Soybean Oil (per 100g)	Rice Bran Oil (per 100g)	Groundnut Oil (per 100g)	Sunflower Oil (per 100g)
Calories	884 kcal	884 kcal	884 kcal	884 kcal
Total Fat	100 g	100 g	100 g	100 g
Saturated Fat	15 g	25 g	17 g	10 g
Monounsaturated Fat	23 g	37 g	46 g	20 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	58 g	33 g	32 g	66 g
Trans Fat	0 g	0 g	0 g	0 g
Cholesterol	0 mg	0 mg	0 mg	0 mg
Sodium	0 mg	0 mg	0 mg	0 mg
Vitamin E	8.2 mg (41% DV)	4.3 mg (22% DV)	15.7 mg (79% DV)	41.1 mg (205% DV)
Omega-3 Fatty Acids (ALA)	6.8 g	0.2 g	0 g	0 g
Omega-6 Fatty Acids	51 g	33 g	32 g	66 g

Conclusion

Soybean oil remains a crucial commodity in the global market, driven by its versatility, affordability, and nutritional benefits. As consumer awareness of plant-based diets and sustainable food production increases, the demand for soybean oil is likely to continue growing.

The soybean oil industry is also focusing on sustainability initiatives to minimize its environmental impact and ensure a secure supply of this valuable resource. By adopting sustainable farming practices and investing in renewable energy, the industry can contribute to a more sustainable future.

Consumers can play a vital role in promoting sustainable soybean oil production and consumption. By choosing soybean oil products that are certified sustainable or organic, you can support responsible farming practices and reduce your environmental footprint.

Additionally, you can incorporate soybean oil into your diet to enjoy its health benefits. It can be used for cooking, baking, and as a salad dressing. However, it is important to consume soybean oil in moderation and be aware of any allergies or dietary restrictions.

By making conscious choices and supporting sustainable soybean oil production, we can contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future.