By Lynda Kiernan-Stone, Global AgInvesting Media
- Oct 26, 2015
- 1 min read

U.S. High Oleic Soybean Acreage Continues to Expand

U.S. acreage of high oleic soybeans is increasing. This year marks the fifth season that high oleic soybeans have been commercially available, and U.S. farmers grew the variety on 250,000 acres across nine states. And as the United Soybean Board’s (USB) Soy Checkoff works along the entire value chain, this expansion is well on its way to achieving the industry goal of 18 million acres by 2023.

High oleic soybeans bring the same yield performance and trait packages of traditional soybeans, but offer a premium to farmers because of the high value of the oil which is used primarily by the food industry.

High oleic oil can withstand high heat condition without breakdown, making it a more stable, ideal oil for commercial frying and baking needs. It also boasts zero trans fats, less saturated fat, and higher levels of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat than traditional soybean oil.

“Growing high oleic soybeans hasn’t really been any different than growing commodity soybeans,” said Illinois high oleic soybean farmer, Kyle Lottinville. “Cleaning equipment might take an extra five minutes, but it’s less intense than other premium varieties, like non-GMO. With comparable yields, the premium counts for more, especially as more delivery options are made available.”