Red Palm OilThe United Soybean Board (USB) says demand for high oleic soybeans is high, but the industry faces challenges in meeting it. In particular, the food industry has expressed value in the low-fat alternative to conventional cooking oils.

However, not enough soybean farmers are growing the high oleic varieties yet, largely due to herbicide program approval. USB board member Chuck Prellwitz of Wisconsin says the herbicide obstacle must be removed in order for the industry to effectively meet the continuously growing demand for the health-conscious and fryer-friendly soybean oil. A USB-funded project is currently in the works to expand the available seed varieties and maturity lengths.

Read more on high-oleic soybeans here.