Benson Hill, an ag tech company focused on harnessing plant genetics, is extending its partnership with the Saint Louis Science Center for a second year. This collaboration includes donating their unique Ultra-High Protein, Low-Oligosaccharide (UHP-LO) soybeans to bolster STEM education in the St. Louis community.
The partnership, which began in 2023, features Benson Hill’s proprietary soybeans in the Science Center’s GROW Gallery. This outdoor exhibit allows visitors to explore advances in agricultural science and understand the importance of plant breeding in enhancing crop traits like protein content, which plays a crucial role in resource management and nutrition.
Clara Hagedorn, an associate manager at Benson Hill, who initially connected with the Science Center, highlighted the educational value of showcasing these soybeans. By presenting them in the GROW Gallery, visitors gain insights into this versatile crop often seen in local fields.
Benson Hill’s UHP-LO soybeans stand out from typical commodity soybeans, which usually have protein levels of about 50% post-processing. The company's soybeans boast post-crush protein levels between 60 and 65%, with lower indigestible sugars, enhancing animal digestive health and welfare. These advancements not only improve feed nutrition density but also focus on reducing synthetic amino acids and boosting energy density in future varieties.
Maddie Earnest, associate director of galleries at the Saint Louis Science Center, expressed her enthusiasm for the ongoing collaboration. She emphasized how the project aligns with their mission to promote STEM education and brings a deeper understanding of a significant regional crop to the community.
The UHP-LO soybeans will be planted in May and harvested in the early fall at the Science Center. Visitors can observe these soybeans growing in the plots around the Case IH combine in the GROW gallery.
