The quantities os soybeans produced increased by 750% between 1968 and 2017 due to the introduction of soybeans in animal food, a sector that is also growing rapidly. Today, however, almost 75% of soybean production is used for protein cake to feed livestock. China is the main producing country.

Raw materials are sourced directly from farmers and sent to oilseed crushing facilities where they are processed into crude vegetable oil and meal. The crude vegetable oil is sent to oilseed refineries where it is further processed into refined vegetable oil.

Soybean oil is turned into a urethane polyol or polymer and can be mixed with isocyanate, to make polyurethane. Poylurethane takes many forms including flexible foam, rigid foam, coatings, adhesives, sealants, and elastomers.

Polymers can be mixed with a latex formulation, replacing some of the petroleum-based raw materials previously used. Polymers are used to make flooring, cushioning, binding and adhesives.

All Ford mustangs and some Ford Explores have soy-based seat cushioning in seats and headrests. By the end of 2012 almost 100 percent of Ford’s North American vehicle lineup featured the more eco-friendly material.

Raw materials are renewable with new crops generated annually in contrast to our petrochemical competitors who are dependent on finite oil resources.

Soy-based plastics that do biodegrade do so at a rate similar to that of paper. The products of soy plastic decomposition are carbon, oxygen, water, and bio-products, known as "biomass." Bacteria, fungi and other microorganisms can break down these plastics.

There is currently a big push to develop more soybean plastics that are not just biodegradable but also compostable.

Soy protein plastics are made at considerably lower temperatures than conventional plastics, which results in energy savings.

The two main kinds of soy-based plastics are polyurethane and polyester thermoset products.

Most biodegradable soy-based plastics include food service items, tableware products, packaging, and plastic bags. The integrity of these products is susceptible to high temperatures and water. Soybean plastics appear and feel like petroleum-based plastics. They are generally are freezer safe and may tolerate hot foods and liquids up to around 90 degrees Celsius (200 degrees Fahrenheit).