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Sunday, June 19, 2005
Speaking of soya beans
By Steve H. Ong
SPEAKING of soya beans, two investors from Iloilo and Muntinlupa in Metro Manila, are planting their roots in Negros Oriental to share the health benefits of these tiny but nutritious products of the earth.
The history of soya beans can be traced back up to more than 4,000 years or over 2,000 years before Jesus Christ was born.
Chinese cultivators are said to have been the first to recognize the real healthy value of this great yellow jewel. And, in fact, Chinese Emperor Shen-nong had in his time declared it one of his empire's five sacred crops.
This "yellow jewel" has been and remains as an important food ingredient in China, Manchuria, Japan, Korea, and Malaysia, among others through the centuries.
Though it originated from Southwest Asia, it is now grown all over the world and is fast becoming increasingly popular among health and diet-conscious people in Europe and the United States.
Jennilyn Cabalquinto, a soya expert and one of the investors of the 'yellow jewel' in Negros Oriental, says soya produce is classified into animal grade and human grade. Animal grade feeds are genetically modified organism (GMO) while human grade is organic and non-GMO.
Processing
Processing soya beans involves four stages. In the first stage, a segregation machine separates the small, medium, and large beans. The second stage involves the use of a roasting machine to cook the beans in different temperature but retaining the essential phytochemicals. In the third stage, a peeling machine removes the bean skin to remove toxins.
Cabalquinto said soya skin contains Nitrogen that triggers the release of neuric acid that causes pain in joints. The final stage is the use of the fining machine for the finished product that are ready for distribution into the domestic market.
The soya bean expert said an investor needs at least a minimum capital of P13,720 to start a business. The amount represents the computation of the one-month sales.
People, she said, are interested in the soya business after learning that it is a recommended drink for pregnant women, growing children, body builders, and individuals prone to stomach ulcers.
Soya beans are rich in protein to build muscles, improve blood cells, the nervous system, and other tissues. It repairs and maintains the body and supply energy. It is fibrous and contains polyunsaturated fats that lower blood cholesterol.
Most important, soya contains anti-cancer elements called isoflavones that help lower the risk of cancer and menopausal disorders and vitamins and minerals.
Minnesota, USA-based health expert Dr. Suzanne Paxton said soya beans contain 42 kinds of vitamins and minerals.
In Dumaguete City, the soya beans business venture is located at the 3rd floor of Gemini Building. Aside from Cabalquinto, the other investor is Reverend Bernard Bandong from Muntinlupa, Metro Manila.
(June 19, 2005 issue)
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