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15 September 1998 |
Ref 98/216 |
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A greater consumption of soyfoods at the expense of animal products may provide what agricultural research cannot - the time for population growth and food production to reach a balance.
That's the view of Dr Thomas Carter from North Carolina State University in the United States.
Speaking at the CSIRO's 10th Annual Soybean Conference in Brisbane today, Dr Carter outlined the important role the humble soybean will play in the future of the human race.
"Overpopulation, degradation of the environment, and exhaustion of crop land present significant challenges in the new millenium. But unlike population booms of the past, this time crop acreage will not rise accordingly with population growth," he said.
"For the human species, these simple facts define the major mission of the next century - bringing our relationship with the earth into balance. For those of us working in agriculture, our mission is no less critical - increase productivity simply to buy time."
"The Japanese Ministry of Agriculture predicts food prices will double by 2010. Meat eaters should be especially concerned because the conversion of calories from plant food to meat is low - only around 25%. Family budgets may force the average consumer to buy less meat or reduce expenditure elsewhere."
While this may be troubling for the consumer, it is likely to be a boon to the soyfood market.
"Soybean is rich in protein, has delicious recipes from around the world for the table, and has great potential for acceptance in Africa, Europe, Australia and the Americas."
Dr Carter said that while genetically modified varieties remain a major concern of domestic and export markets, soyfood varieties have been developed through conventional breeding methods.
The most desirable property of the soybean is as a source of photo-oestrogens.
"Tofu, a white soy product similar to cheese, is a potentially safe replacement for the oestrogen therapy prescribed to women during menopause because of its isoflavone content," Dr Carter said.
More information from:
- Grant McDuling, CSIRO Tropical Agriculture (07) 3214
2361
(Australia's largest scientific research organisation)
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