Large Majority Believe Soy Products Are Healthy

March 28, 2000

A new survey sponsored by the United Soybean Board shows 71% of consumers consider soy and soy products "very healthy" compared to 67% in 1998 and only 58% in 1997. Consumers also say they are eating more soy products.

More than 40% of consumers are aware of specific health benefits of soy, such as reducing he risk of heart disease, lowering cholesterol, reducing breast cancer and prostate cancer risks and relieving or reducing symptoms of menopause.

Of those who have tried soy products, 68% said the use them regularly; 24% said once a week or more compared to only 15% in 1998.

The three soy products that ranked highest in consumer awareness are tofu (78%), soyburgers (72%) and soy milk (63%).