The U.S. Soybean Export Council released its third annual sustainability report Tuesday, revealing that 71% of all U.S. soy exports now carry certificates verifying sustainable production practices.
The U.S. Soy Sustainability Assurance Protocol annual report tracks progress in sustainable soybean production while helping global buyers demonstrate their commitment to responsible sourcing. The certification verifies that soybeans and soy products comply with U.S. laws, regulations and production practices outlined in the protocol.
“This underscores U.S. Soy’s rapidly expanding role in supporting sustainable nutrition security globally,” said Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO.
Global market adoption accelerates
The report shows more than 1,200 products across 22 countries now carry Sustainable U.S. Soy or Fed with Sustainable U.S. Soy labels, marking significant growth in market adoption. Dutch Mill food company became the first soy milk brand in Thailand to feature the sustainable certification label.
More than 207 companies worldwide have utilized transferable SSAP certificates, extending sustainability verification throughout the supply chain. The certificates now include verified carbon footprint data, with U.S. soybean farmers maintaining the lowest carbon footprint globally among major producing regions.
Ambitious 2030 targets set
Looking ahead, the industry has established specific sustainability goals for 2030, including a 10% reduction in land use impact, 25% reduction in soil erosion, 10% reduction in energy use, and 5% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions.
The protocol, created in 2014, provides credible assurance to customers that purchased soy meets sustainable production standards. Feed manufacturers and grain handling facilities increasingly rely on these certifications to meet customer sustainability requirements.
“U.S. soybean growers are committed to conservation practices that deliver high quality, reliable, sustainable soy products to customers across the world,” Sutter said.
