U.S. soybean farmers just returned from a trade mission to China promoting the high amino acid content of soybeans grown in the northwestern corn belt. One of those farmers was Bob Metz, who also serves on the South Dakota Soybean Council. He says South American soybeans which are produced near the equator are high in crude protein, but feed value needs to be based on more than that.
Metz says the trick now is to convince Chinese feed and livestock companies that essential amino acids are more important than protein in the ration.
Soybean export business going to China through the Pacific Northwest instead of through the Gulf would also save Chinese grain buyers money on freight.