A fundamental understanding of soy protein characteristics, properties and performance is needed as well as the identification of the features differentiating soy from other sources of proteins for effective use and increased demand of soy protein in industrial applications. The overall intent of this effort is to facilitate the discussion of soy protein with researchers from academia, government laboratories and industry, create an awareness of individual research needs and potential coordination of efforts to solve common fundamental challenges. This was accomplished through a soy protein workshop conducted in conjunction with the USB Technical Advisory Panel (TAP) meeting held in St. Louis. The workshop focused on soy protein product research presentations, discussions of the issues encountered in developing industrial products with soy protein, fundamental properties associated with those challenges and identify approaches needed to better understand the underlying problem or effect. It also builds on the existing knowledge base for soy protein with current uses in wood adhesives and food products and explores how soy protein can be advantageously modified for these and other new use opportunities. The project also increases communication opportunities and furthers interactions among the soy protein researchers through additional virtual on-line discussions throughout the year to facilitate researcher engagement, collaborations and build a stronger soy research community.

The desired outcome of the meetings and workshop is the sharing and disseminating of information including specific capabilities among soy researchers and organizations, soy protein products including soy meal from the processors and the experience of what has and has not worked in soy protein research. The group serves as a resource to the basic body of knowledge and current state of understanding with respect to industrial soy protein use. While broadly addressing the need for a better fundamental understanding of benefits and limitations of soy protein for industrial applications, the focus is to highlight the unique and differentiated features of both the material and products derived from them to promote the use of soy protein especially in comparison to other protein products. The intent therefore is to position soy protein for success with substantial benefits in industrial product applications. Going forward, the objectives are to implement improvements based on the prior workshops, expand interactions among soy protein researchers and broaden reach and understanding of opportunities for industrial applications of soy protein.