Types of soybeans and their characteristics - Nutritionist's Column Vol.133

Soybeans are so nutritious that they are also called "meat from the field," and are an important crop widely cultivated around the world. Although the nutritional value varies depending on the type, they all share the following characteristics:

• High in protein : A good source of plant-based protein, important for vegetarians and vegans.
• Isoflavones : Ingredients that help maintain women's health.
• Low fat : Healthy and perfect for dieting.

There are many different types of soybeans, each with its own unique nutrients, flavor, and uses. Here we will introduce the characteristics, nutritional value, and production areas of black beans, brown beans, red beans, and green beans.

Black soybeans

It has a black outer skin, a pleasant, sweet flavor, and is known for its high antioxidant properties.

▼ Features
The skin is rich in anthocyanins, which have strong antioxidant properties.
- When heated, it becomes sweeter and is often used in stews and sweets.

▼ Nutrients
-Anthocyanin : Suppresses active oxygen and contributes to preventing aging and arteriosclerosis.
・Dietary fiber : Regulates the intestinal environment.
・Isoflavones : Effective in regulating hormone balance.

▼Origin
・Black beans from Tanba are particularly famous in Japan.
-It is also cultivated in China and Korea and is widely used as a health food.

Brown soybeans

These soybeans are harvested before they are ripe, and are also known as edamame. They have a fragrant flavor and are suitable for processing into foods such as boiled beans, soybean flour, and miso.

▼ Features
-Strong sweetness and richness.
- It retains its vibrant green color even after boiling.

▼ Nutrients
・Vitamin C : Has antioxidant properties and improves immunity.
-Protein : Supports muscle maintenance and repair.
Potassium : Regulates blood pressure.

▼Origin
・Niigata Prefecture and Yamagata Prefecture are famous.
・In particular, Niigata's "Hidenmame" is known as a high-quality brown bean.

Red soybeans

It has a reddish-brown seed coat and contains anthocyanins, which are expected to have antioxidant properties. It has a rich flavor and is suitable for making boiled beans and miso.

▼ Features
The skin is red and has a unique fragrance.
- Mainly used in soups and desserts.

▼ Nutrients
Flavonoids : High in antioxidant properties.
・Iron : Effective in preventing anemia.
・Saponin : Helps lipid metabolism.

▼Origin
-Grown in the Tohoku region (Yamagata Prefecture, Akita Prefecture), Nagano Prefecture, Niigata Prefecture, etc.
- In some areas, native red soybeans are traditionally cultivated.

green soybeans

A rare variety that remains blue-green even when mature.

▼ Features
-Has little grassy smell and a creamy texture.
- Widely used in miso, tofu, and boiled beans.

▼ Nutrients
・Lecithin : Supports brain function.
・B vitamins : Helps with energy metabolism.
・Zinc : Contributes to improving immunity.

▼Origin
-It is widely cultivated in Hokkaido and Yamagata Prefecture.
- In particular, "Tsuru no Ko soybeans" are highly regarded as a high-quality variety of green soybeans.

Nutritious black beans

Among soybeans, black soybeans are considered to be particularly nutritious.
Black beans are considered to be particularly nutritious and are rich in the following nutrients:

-Anthocyanin : Has strong antioxidant properties and contributes to preventing aging and lifestyle-related diseases.
・Protein : Helps with muscle formation and metabolism.
・Dietary fiber : Regulates the intestinal environment.
- Vitamin E : Highly antioxidant, it contributes to maintaining healthy skin and promoting blood circulation.
・Minerals (iron and calcium) : Effective in preventing anemia and strengthening bones.

Another highly nutritious variety that has attracted attention is the Hiden-mame (brown soybean) , which is rich in vitamin C and protein and is highly rated for its flavor as edamame.
Additionally, green soybeans (Tsurunoko soybeans) have a creamy taste and are rich in lecithin, which supports brain health.

summary

Each type of soybean has its own unique characteristics and offers a variety of nutritional benefits.
Incorporating a variety of soy products into your daily diet will improve your nutritional balance and support a healthy lifestyle.

GRØN's soy protein contains superfoods such as vitamins and minerals that are effective for beauty and health, making it the perfect protein for those who have an unbalanced diet or who want to become beautiful from the inside out.

<Related GRØN products>
・Green Monster
・Red Heat
・Pancake mix & protein

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Nutritionist, Food Education Instructor, Food 6th Industry Producer Level 4
Ayako Ishihara

Nutritional guidance in the healthcare field and agribusiness professional.
She is involved in a variety of activities in the fields of beauty and health, including giving lectures to Miss World Japan candidates.

With the philosophy of "enriching the mind and body through food and realizing a vibrant society where people and communities are connected," he founded i-Field Co., Ltd. in 2013 and serves as its representative.
He is a core member of the food team for "DINING OUT," which holds outdoor restaurants in various regions, and also participates in fashion brand projects.
She is also involved in promoting local ingredients, product development and production specializing in "health" and "beauty," branding, concept design, food hygiene, sales promotion, and training planning and management. She is in charge of nutritional supervision for GRØN's product development, proposing ways to incorporate these ingredients more effectively into consumer health.
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