The soybean is a type of legume native to East Asia, widely cultivated for its edible seeds. These seeds are rich in protein and oil, making them a valuable crop for both human consumption and animal feed. Soybeans are used to produce various products, including tofu, soy milk, and soy sauce.
In addition to their nutritional benefits, soybeans play a significant role in agriculture. They are often used in crop rotation to improve soil health, as they can fix nitrogen in the soil. This makes them an important part of sustainable farming practices and contributes to biodiversity in agricultural systems.