U.S. Soy International Masters Event Speeds Through Indiana

U.S. Soy Delivers Immersive Trade Event at Crossroads of Research, Production and Utilization

Becoming a master in all things soybean oil can take some time and due diligence. Representatives from nine countries joined the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), Indiana Soybean Alliance and export partners in Indiana for an immersion course like none other into the world of soybean oil. The U.S. Soy International Oil Masters event provided customers across the globe an opportunity to not only learn from experts in the industry but get a first-hand view of everything from soy research and processing to on-farm production and end-use destinations.

“Our goal is for our participants to understand the variety of advantages U.S. soybean oil delivers to them and to share that value back with their own colleagues and peers to continue its impact,” said Will McNair, Director of Oil and Soy Foods, USSEC. “They get a first-hand look at U.S. Soy in action and gain the tools and connections that elevate their understanding of soybean oil.”

The event included on-site visits to Purdue University, local soybean farms, a Bunge processing plant, Corteva and Kroger retail grocery store.

In addition to the learning opportunities in the field, the group of soy oil masters heard from economic and research experts discussing U.S. Soy’s refining advantages, the outlook for vegetable oils, potential uses for soybean oil, supply chain considerations and soy oil’s heart health effects. Sustainability and what’s next for U.S. Soy were also included as part of the course. 

“Soy’s versatility is a major selling point for so many and we want to make sure our customers understand why U.S. Soy oil delivers advantages to their various regions,” McNair said. “We can talk about refining advantages and quality controls but seeing it first-hand or connecting with the experts makes a difference in how comfortable they feel with U.S. Soy.”

In addition to the tours and presentations, attendees attended a lively cooking demonstration by certified chefs from the America’s region, a barbecue hosted by the Indiana Soybean Alliance and receptions to help them get to know the other attendees and speakers.

USSEC collaborated with a number of organizations to bring this event to life and received funding and manpower from Indiana Soybean Alliance, United Soybean Board, USDA  Foreign Agricultural Service and the USA Poultry and Egg Export Council.

The U.S. Soy International Masters program is positioned to an annual event. Customers interested in participating in a future program should contact Will McNair at wmcnair@ussec.org.

This article is partially funded by U.S. Soy farmers, their checkoff and the soy value chain.