Agricultural News
Versatility of Soybean Oil Opens Doors for the United Soybean Board
Mon, 06 Jun 2022 10:44:21 CDT
KC Sheperd, Farm Director, caught up with Belinda Burrier, the chair of communications and education at the United Soybean Board. Burrier talks about new strides for the soybean industry.
The United Soybean Board recently partnered with Goodyear and Skechers. Both of these companies are producing products using soybean oil. Soybean oil, when mixed with rubber compounds, has been found to improve flexibility at low temperatures, increase traction, and reduce energy consumption during the manufacturing phase.
"We have teamed up with Goodyear Tire and we have a multi-decade commitment from them for sourcing soybean oil from soybean farmers in the U.S.," Burrier said. "One of the things they have done is created a new rubber tire that goes on any kind of vehicle."
Burrier said many fleets have already started to use these new tires. The tires made using soybean oil, Burrier said, help to displace petroleum and as a result, helps companies to create a more sustainable product by using a renewable product grown in U.S. farms.
Goodyear plans to use soybean oil to the full extent in all of their tires by the year 2040, Burrier said.
Burrier also talked about the United Soybean Board's partnership with Skechers.
"Everybody on the soybean board actually got a pair of the Skechers tennis shoes and it's the same philosophy," Burrier said. "The soybean oil was used in the soles of the tennis shoes, and it makes them more pliable, have better grip, and more cushion."
When people wear Skechers tennis shoes, Burrier said they are supporting an American farmer.
Burrier applauded the United Soybean Board for growing their communications in recent years and having their voice heard.
"The United Soybean Board is so diligent in creating demand for the soybeans across the United States," Burrier said. "It is really a great thing because of the quality of soybeans we are growing and to find a use for the soybean oil, which used to be a by-product."
Soybeans used to be known for making soybean meal, Burrier said, but now the soybean meal has taken a backseat to the oil because of all the different products the oil can be used for.
"Marketing has increased dramatically within the last ten years," Burrier said. "I want to say that out of the thousands of products that are out on the market, soybean is so versatile and sustainable."
Burrier is looking forward to promoting new communications within the United Soybean Board. One of the things the board is doing, she added is getting farmer's stories out to the general consumer to increase transparency between consumer and producer.
"Our communications have picked up tremendously in the last couple of years and I feel well prepared on so many different angles," Burrier said.
The United Soybean Board has recently partnered with several new entities, Burrier said, including a partnership with the National Pork Board and National Corn Growers Association to help consumers learn about the importance of soil health.
Click the LISTEN BAR below to hear more from KC and Belinda Burrier on big strides for the United Soybean Board.
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