Soy protein is a plant-based protein that comes from the soybean, which is a legume. It’s a great source of protein for both vegetarians and vegans alike, as well as those avoiding dairy, with no cholesterol and very little saturated fat.
Soy protein falls into three categories:
This is the highest quality soy protein available. It’s more refined and processed than the others, but it has the highest biological value of all the plant-based proteins. This means the body will use a large amount of what’s ingested.
Soy protein isolate can be found in:
Protein-based supplements (shakes, bars etc.)
Dairy products
Certain meat substitutes
Condiments
Bread products
Soy protein concentrate is made by removing the sugars (a part of the soybeans carbohydrate) from de-hulled soybeans. It’s still high in protein, but maintains most of its fibre, which is useful for digestive health.
Soy protein concentrate can be found in:
Cereals
Baked goods
Infant milk formula
Some meat substitute products
Beer
3. Textured soy protein (TSP) or textured vegetable protein (TVP).
This is made from soy protein concentrate, but is found in larger pieces or chunks. It often resembles a meat-based product
Textured soy protein can be used to make many of the popular traditional meat-based meals such as soups, curries, stews and more.