FAQ

Organic Valley Frequently Asked Questions

Soy FAQ

What is Organic Valley Soy?

Organic Valley Soy is a delicious beverage available in four flavors—Original, Chocolate, Vanilla, and Unsweetened. Using only certified organic whole soybeans, organic flavors, and no masking agents, we have developed a tasty beverage without the "beany" taste typical of many soy drinks. We use soybeans selected for nutrition and taste by generations of soy farmers, and a special process that maximizes nutritional value. Our organic soybeans are 100% grown in the U.S., with "identity preserved" traceability back to our family farms. Organic Valley Soy earned the "National Health & Wellness Member Tested Seal of Approval," awarded by the National Health & Wellness Club Magazine, with an overall taste approval rating of 93%, and a price point approval rating of 83%!

What makes our Soy organic?

What makes our Soy organic?

The USDA organic standards are the strictest food production standards in the world. Certified organic farms are required to follow the strict production rules of the USDA's National Organic Standards, and are regularly inspected by an independent third party for compliance.
Organic Valley farmers never use synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, or herbicides in production.
All spices and other ingredients used are certified organic wherever possible, as clearly stated on our labels.

What are the health benefits of drinking Organic Valley Soy?

Organic Valley Soy derives its winning taste and nutritional profile using only certified organic soy beans and flavors. Our Soy provides the following nutritional benefits:

Excellent source of Calcium, Vitamin D, B12, and Riboflavin (B2)
Good source of Vitamin A, and Protein, with a complete complement of amino acids.
Lactose, Dairy, Cholesterol, and Gluten Free
Original, Vanilla, and Chocolate provide 3 grams of fiber per serving; Unsweetened, 1 gram
Unsweetened contains no added sugar, net carbohydrates of 2 grams per serving, and only 1 gram of naturally occurring sugar from the soybean itself, making it a low-glycemic food.

For more information on the health benefits of organic soy, see the Health & Nutrition links on the Resource page at www.organicvalley.coop.

What are isoflavones?

Perhaps the most talked about compounds found in soy are the phytoestrogens, which are a type of phytochemical with a structure similar to the hormone estrogen. Phytoestrogens occur richly in legumes, and particularly in soybeans. Soybeans contain phytoestrogens called "isoflavones."

What are the health benefits of isoflavones?

Isoflavones behave like weak estrogens. In some cases they weakly mimic the effects of estrogen, and in other situations, they block the effect of estrogens. The estrogenic mimicking effects of isoflavones is a complicated mechanism at the cutting edge of current nutrition research. Variables affecting the way isoflavones act in the body can include whether you are pre- or post-menopausal, on estrogen replacement therapy or not, taking other medications, nutritional influences, intestinal ecology, genetics, and more. Isoflavones potentially assist in improving bone density and provide important antioxidant capabilities. Isoflavones mimic estrogens, but are not estrogens. When consumed as usual dietary intakes consistent with a typical Asian diet, isoflavones can yield moderate health benefits. Based on 1-2 servings of soy per day, using soy in the context of a healthy varied diet, and focusing on organic sources of soy, most people will realize beneficial effects from including soy in their diet. Before adopting any health care regimen, individuals should consult with their health care provider.

Where do Organic Valley's soybeans come from?

Organic Valley's soybeans come from America's "soybean belt," where generations of organic family farms have tended the land to create some of the most productive soil in the world. Our carefully selected bean varieties grown in this environment are unusually high in sweetness and protein. Our 100% certified organic soybeans are 'Identity Preserved'—meaning we can trace each carton of Organic Valley Soy right back to fields where the beans were harvested. This way, we know everything there is to know about each carton of soy. We defend the genetic integrity of the beans against contamination by genetically modified organisms (GMO's) in recognition of the interdependence of all global life.

You can learn more about the farmer who produced the beans for your carton of Soy at http://www.organicvalley.coop/products/soy.

Is Organic Valley Soy Gluten, Cholesterol, Lactose, and Dairy Free?

Yes, Organic Valley Soy is gluten, cholesterol, lactose, and dairy free.

Is Organic Valley Soy Kosher certified?

Yes, Organic Valley Soy is Kosher certified by the Orthodox Union.

Does Organic Valley Soy fit into a Vegan diet?

Yes, Organic Valley Soy is perfect for a Vegan diet. There are no animal derivatives or by-products used in our ingredients, or in the production of our ingredients.

Can I cook with Soy?

There are many applications for soy. Soy may be used as a substitute for dairy, cup for cup, in recipes that call for milk. From making pancake mix and baking birthday cakes, to creating soups and stews, soy is a tasty and nutritious option. Soy also makes a wonderful topping for cereal. Unsweetened Soy is often preferred for cooking because there is no added sugar.

How do I maintain the freshness of Soy?

Soy is a perishable item and must be refrigerated. Do not leave soy out for extended periods. Make note of the date on the packaging, which tells the "best if opened by" date. Be sure to keep track of the date opened, as the product tastes freshest within 5 days after opening.

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