New Soybeans Good for Heart and Cold-Engine Performance

Two new breeds of soybeans may produce oil that is more beneficial to the heart, according to scientists at the USDA Agricultural Research Service. The new genetic lines have an 80 percent concentration of oleic acid compared to 20 percent in a normal soybean. By increasing oleic acid, monounsaturated fat can avoid resorting to hydrogenation, which generates trans-fat and produces more bad cholesterol in the body. Increasing oleic acid also may offer improved cold-weather engine performance when using soy-based biodiesel. Learn more.