American Soybean Association

Biofuel: Staying Competitive

Vanessa Hunt — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 15:47:34 +0000

By Vanessa Hunt, ASA Director of Publications & Visuals As trade policy and geopolitical dynamics continue to create economic uncertainty around the globe, a robust domestic biofuel market would provide much needed stability and market opportunities for U.S. soybean farmers. Instead of continued imports of biofuel and biofuel feedstocks that leave our value chain vulnerable to supply chain manipulation, ASA is advocating for policy outcomes that strengthen domestic soy demand and support U.S. soybean farmers. Biofuel is a broad term that includes biodiesel, renewable diesel and sustainable aviation fuel, as well as the smaller markets of soy-derived naphtha, liquified petroleum gas and home heating oil. The domestic biofuel industry can play a critical role in national security and economic stability – and biofuel is produced right here on U.S. soil. Roughly half of all U.S.-processed soybean oil is used in biomass-based diesel, making biofuel one of the most significant domestic markets for soybeans. The Current State of Biofuel Biofuel encompasses a wide range of fuels, feedstocks and policy frameworks, but ASA is currently focused on two specific policy issues – the Section 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit and the Renewable Fuel Standard (RFS) renewable volume obligations (RVOs). Clear guidance aligning with recently enacted amendments to the 45Z tax credit will help determine the economics of producing low-carbon fuels, while RVOs for 2026 and 2027 will establish the level of biofuel blending required under the RFS. Both directly affect soybean oil utilization, domestic crush expansion and market certainty for farmers. When U.S.-grown soybean oil is used in domestic biofuel production, it strengthens rural economies, reduces greenhouse gas emissions and lowers reliance on finite energy sources. How these policies are structured ultimately determines whether American clean fuel policy delivers its intended economic and environmental benefits to U.S. farmers and consumers alike. 45Z Tax Credit In July 2025, the 45Z tax credit was amended through the One Big Beautiful Bill Act (OBBBA) to enhance benefits to soy-based biofuel, but final guidance from the U.S. Department of the Treasury has yet to be completed. ASA is advocating for swift draft guidance from the Treasury Department to ensure timely implementation. The tax credit is important to soybean farmers because it incentivizes fuel producers to purchase soybean oil for biodiesel and renewable diesel. To qualify for the 45Z tax credit, fuel producers must utilize feedstocks produced in North America. Finalization of 45Z is critical because it will boost domestic feedstock demand and support stronger soybean prices. The tax credit also protects domestically grown agricultural feedstocks and removes incentives for imported waste feedstocks, which have exponentially increased market share in U.S. biofuel production over the past five years. “We led advocacy efforts and did so in coordination with other ag commodity groups and soybean processors as Congress was developing tax code changes in the OBBBA,” said Alexa Combelic, executive director of government affairs for ASA. “These advocacy efforts led to an incredible win for ASA in relation to the 45Z tax credits. We were able to remove the indirect land use change penalty on agricultural biofuel feedstocks, which effectively doubles the value of the tax credit for soy biofuel. In addition, we were able to address the surge of imported feedstocks entering our biofuel production value chain through new limitations on tax credit eligibility.” Up until the week before the OBBBA was passed, Combelic said it wasn’t clear if the North American feedstock “ringfence” would be included in the final bill. Through significant grassroots stakeholder mobilization and advocacy leadership, ASA was able to ensure the tax credit would focus on biofuel feedstocks grown and produced in North America rather than overseas. Additionally, through months of education on the impacts of agricultural indirect land use change (ILUC) penalties, ASA was able to double the 45Z credit rate for soy-based biofuel. The ILUC penalty was an arbitrary tax on U.S. farmers, and its removal means the carbon intensity of soy is based on its direct impacts and not tied to a calculation model that penalizes U.S. grown crops for farming behavior in South America. This win was not only the product of the hard work of ASA Government Affairs, but also of the efforts by farmers who helped ensure lawmakers were hearing directly from their constituents about the importance of the tax credit amendments to the soybean industry. The 45Z credit was first established under the Inflation Reduction Act (IRA), which restructured biofuel tax credits based on carbon intensity and initially disadvantaged agricultural feedstocks. Through mechanisms like ILUC, the IRA policy created an incentive for imported waste feedstocks like tallow, primarily from Brazil, and used cooking oil, primarily from China. Now, the 45Z tax credit as updated by the OBBBA disincentivizes those imports by prioritizing feedstocks available at home through a North American ringfence of eligibility and by removing arbitrary credit reductions for agricultural products. The next step to ensure utilization of 45Z is for the Treasury Department to develop tax guidance that outlines how biofuel producers can utilize this tax credit after the statutory changes enacted through OBBBA. At this time, ASA is continuing to engage with the Treasury Department and administration to highlight the sense of urgency. While interim or draft guidance is expected this winter, final guidance will only be published after a public comment period and agency review. “We anticipate full final guidance by spring or summer,” Combelic said. RVOs The RVO rule for compliance years 2026 and 2027 as proposed by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) will lead to an increase in blending volumes for biomass-based diesel – a policy that supports soybean farmers, soybean processors and biofuel producers. Released by EPA in June 2025, this was the strongest proposed RVO rule ever published. It was the direct result of continued advocacy with this administration. “The previous Trump administration was not the biggest advocate for biofuel, so we were thrilled to see this change in tune,” Combelic said. It shows a clear focus on wanting to be a partner as we seek to increase domestic markets for soybean oil. Based on the two-year draft rule, if finalized, the biofuel value chain would absorb 10% of the average soybean sales to China in the first year and 20% of soybean sales to China in the second year. The current RVOs, released under the Biden Administration EPA in 2023, underestimated industry capacity, weakening demand for soybean oil. The 2023-2025 RVOs did not reflect the expansion of the biofuel value chain – production and soybean crush. At that time, ASA was disappointed that blending volumes were not higher. The 2026 volumes versus the 2025 volumes shows an increase of over 2 billion gallons. This is a historic increase in volume requirements for biomass-based diesel. ASA applauded the proposal but continues to push for higher volume targets going forward in order to stabilize the market and secure long-term growth. 2025 marked the 20th anniversary of the RFS, and the EPA proposal in June marked a perfect reason for ASA to celebrate the program. The RFS program was enacted in 2005 through the passage of the Energy Policy Act and has been improved over the years, resulting in a new era that puts farmers first and strengthens the domestic biofuel industry. When President Trump began his term, he signed an Executive Order that created policy in support of American energy dominance. Domestic biofuel production fits right into that idea as from soil to final fuel production, it can be produced exclusively within the United States. While soybean farmers have struggled to maintain biofuel feedstock market share amid the rapidly surging flood of cheap, foreign feedstocks, the proposed 2026-2027 RVO rule addresses concerns of fraudulent used cooking oil coming into the United States through a novel proposal to reduce Renewable Identification Number (RIN) credit values by 50% for imported biofuel and biofuel made from imported feedstocks. It encourages domestic biofuel production, strengthening domestic soybean markets and making domestic feedstocks more competitive. The 50% RIN credit reduction proposed by EPA is yet another opportunity to continue disincentivizing foreign feedstocks from being imported into the U.S. A Bipartisan Issue Because domestic biofuel creates a market for farmers and provides a boon for rural communities, lawmakers on both sides of the aisle support biofuel policies which increase domestic production, making it a true bipartisan issue. Domestic biofuel production creates jobs, opens a market for soybean farmers and bolsters the use of a product planted, harvested, created and consumed all within the United States. Biofuel policy is a flexible issue that supports the values of both political parties – a win-win for all. ASA saw additional success on Capitol Hill last year as there was a strong coalition of advocates who helped them see bipartisan caucus support using agriculture feedstocks. When the 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit was first released, the North American ringfence was only included in the House of Representatives, with the Senate later striking the measure. However, through ASA’s targeted and continued engagement, an ad hoc coalition of biofuel producers, soybean processors and farmers from a variety of commodities advocated for the ringfence to be reinstated, and it was restored in an updated version of the text released by the Senate the week of passage, ensuring eligible feedstocks will be permanently limited to North American origin points for the life of the 45Z tax credit. The Future of Biofuel Looking to the future of biofuel, ASA is calling for the completion of EPA’s proposed 2026-2027 Renewable Fuel Standard renewable volume obligations and issuing timely Treasury guidance for the revised 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit to reflect enacted changes that prioritize domestic agricultural feedstocks. On Nov. 12, 2025, ASA and the National Oilseed Processors Association (NOPA) sent a letter to President Trump urging swift finalization of these key federal biofuel policies which are critical to strengthen domestic demand and support farmers who are facing continued market pressure. As ASA continues to advocate for the good of the soy community, the Association is continuously engaging with USDA, EPA, Treasury, the U.S. Trade Representative and additional senior staff at the White House. Biofuel policy is an issue that spans beyond one agency. It takes a team effort to make a difference, and ASA is focused on coalition building, legislative education and advocacy at the highest level of government.

The post Biofuel: Staying Competitive appeared first on American Soybean Association.

WISHH Leads U.S. Soy Expansion in Central Asia’s Emerging Markets

Vanessa Hunt — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 21:58:44 +0000

The American Soybean Association’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health program continues to expand markets for U.S. soy in Central Asia. The rapidly advancing region is creating promising new opportunities for soybean farmers across both the food and feed sectors. Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are poised to increase their demand for high-quality protein, positioning U.S. soy at the forefront of expansion. WISHH has worked with partners in several of these countries over the past few years. It has sponsored trade teams as well as brought partners to the United States where they met with growers and learned about innovations in soybean processing, product development, and new food applications for soy. But a new phase of WISHH’s work in Central Asia is kicking into gear. A key driver of the momentum is WISHH’s Trans-Caspian Corridor U.S. Soy Strategy, which also aligns with heightened U.S. interest and investment in Central Asia. The Trans-Caspian Strategy is an approach to expanding U.S. soy exports into markets with rapidly growing populations and economies by focusing on capacity-building and targeted marketing. It also addresses buyer education, regulatory challenges and logistics.

WISHH Executive Director Gena Perry signs a memorandum of understanding with the Uzbekistan Ministry of Investment, Industry and Trade. The MoU will, in part, build connections between Uzbek buyers and U.S. soy suppliers.

“Right now, the United States has less than 1% of the market share for soybean trade in the region, but we are on a road to change that,” said WISHH Executive Director Gena Perry. “We are leveraging funding from USDA with both the state and national soy checkoffs in countries that we feel are one of the next frontiers for trade.” That alignment was on display in December when WISHH and the government of Uzbekistan formalized a collaboration by signing a memorandum of understanding to expand the country’s soy value chains and advance trade between the two countries. The parties signed the MoU against the backdrop of the C5+1 Summit annual meeting between the United States and the five Central Asian countries. The agreement provides the groundwork for a commitment to improving food security, strengthening private-sector capacity and building connections between Uzbek buyers and U.S. soy suppliers. As Uzbekistan’s poultry, dairy and aquaculture industries continue to grow, so does its need for high-quality protein sources to meet domestic demand. Additionally, farmer support is key to WISHH’s strategy in the region. For example, the Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council was among the first to recognize Uzbekistan’s potential as a future soy market. Through its checkoff program, the council invested in early market development and relationship-building that helped introduce U.S. soy to local feed and food industries. Minnesota’s work with WISHH helped open doors with local partners, raise awareness about the value of U.S. soy and establish key partnerships that are growing across Central Asia. Farmers realize WISHH’s role in creating demand for U.S. soy means scouting long-term global trends and having a sound plan in these emerging and developing markets. “WISHH’s staff puts work into finding markets that offer real potential for the soybeans we grow,” said WISHH Committee Chair Morey Hill, noting WISHH celebrated its 25^th anniversary in 2025. “From market assessments to well-thought-out strategic plans, you can see why us farmers are excited about the next 25 years.”

The post WISHH Leads U.S. Soy Expansion in Central Asia’s Emerging Markets appeared first on American Soybean Association.

Colorbiotics’ Peak 301 Certified ‘It’s Sustainably Soy’

Vanessa Hunt — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 21:55:03 +0000

Peak 301 is the all-natural, non-toxic answer for aging asphalt shingles: an application of a chemistry-correcting formula that’s guaranteed to extend the life of a roof. The product works its way through every single part of every single shingle to fix the chemistry that breaks down over time. One application will add at least six years to your roof — guaranteed by warranty — but as long as your shingles are in decent shape, it’ll be more like adding a decade. Compared to even the cheapest estimate in your city, with Peak 301, you’ll pay less than 25% of what you would have paid for a whole new roof. In March 2025, Peak 301 received its certification from the Illinois Soybean Association’s “It’s Sustainably Soy” Program, which recognizes products and organizations that use and produce soy-based products. Peak 301 is 30% soy-based and 100% bio-based, certified by the USDA. The ISA “It’s Sustainably Soy” Program is designed to recognize organizations, companies and executives for switching to sustainable soy-based solutions. As of November 2025, the program had certified 112 products from 23 companies located across the U.S. “We take pride in being an industry leader, and receiving the ‘It’s Sustainably Soy’ certifi cation is a nice recognition of that,” said Kent Rotert, vice president of Colorbiotics. “It’s important to us and to our customers to offer products that are not only of the highest quality but also natural and safe.” “Through ongoing research and development, thoughtful executives and organizations can switch to soy-based solutions to reduce or avoid the need to use legacy, carbon intense chemicals or complex compounds that carry an environmental impact,” said Todd Main, ISA director of market development. “Every product that carries the ‘It’s Sustainably Soy’ Certification uses a soy- or bio-based input that reduces the need to extract non-renewable resources like petroleum or mineral-based contents, in favor of products sourced and rooted in sustainable farming practices.” To learn more about the Illinois Soybean Association’s “It’s Sustainably Soy” Program, visit ilsoy.org/soycertification/. Source: Illinois Soybean Association

The post Colorbiotics’ Peak 301 Certified ‘It’s Sustainably Soy’ appeared first on American Soybean Association.

Advocating for Increased Market Expansion & Market Access

Vanessa Hunt — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 21:52:20 +0000

By Virginia Houston, ASA Director of Government Affairs It isn’t an exaggeration to say that trade is the lifeblood of U.S. soybean farmers. As the United States’ largest exported agricultural commodity, the ability to sell high-quality U.S. soybeans around the world is vital to the continued success of our industry. It also isn’t an exaggeration to say that trade policy was front and center in 2025. Since the return of President Trump to the White House, there has been a renewed spotlight on the role of international trade in the domestic economy and its impact on U.S. consumers. Amid this debate on protectionism and free trade, U.S. soybean farmers have once again been in the spotlight.

Photo courtesy of North Dakota Soybean Growers Association

While it’s no secret how important the Chinese market is to U.S. soybean farmers, ASA has continued to advocate for increased market expansion and market access. Over the past several months, we have applauded the Trump administration for announcing renewed or new trade frameworks with multiple countries around the world, including many important to U.S. soy exports. These include markets such as Japan, the European Union, the United Kingdom, the Philippines, Vietnam, Cambodia and Malaysia. It is important to note that these frameworks are still in the early stages of full trade agreements. Negotiations are ongoing with these trading partners, and ASA – alongside the U.S. Soybean Export Council – has been providing critical feedback to the administration about gains that could be realized for our industry with those partners. We continue to work with the administration and seek clarification on implementation and additional technical details.

Photo courtesy of North Dakota Soybean Growers Association

However, many of those markets are already long-term, reliable customers for U.S. soybean farmers. The EU already stands as a top three trading partner, and Japan, Vietnam and the Philippines are consistently top export markets for U.S. soy. But what about new markets? This fall, the government of Uzbekistan and ASA’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health (WISHH) signed a Memorandum of Understanding to expand collaboration on developing U.S. soy value chains to advance trade between the U.S. and Uzbekistan. A leader in the Trans-Caspian region, government officials from Uzbekistan made multiple visits to Washington D.C. in the fall, seeking information from ASA, USDA and the private sector about their plans to increase imports of U.S. soybeans. While there is still much work to be done, the groundwork for additional exports of U.S. soy into Uzbekistan has the potential to increase U.S. soy’s presence in the region and further diversify our export markets. Trade policy will continue to be a rollercoaster over the next several years but rest assured – your ASA team in Washington D.C. is strapped in with our hands and feet inside the ride. There may be bumps in the road, but we are committed to working with our partners at USSEC, WISHH and the U.S. government to secure policy wins that result in long-term, stable market access for U.S. soybeans and soy products.

The post Advocating for Increased Market Expansion & Market Access appeared first on American Soybean Association.

This Farm Girl Cooks – Deanne Frieders

Vanessa Hunt — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 21:48:28 +0000

By Blair Shipp, ASA State Policy Communications Coordinator Deanne Frieders’ kitchen is an extension of the farm. After marrying her husband, Ryan, and becoming part of his family’s farming operation, Frieders quickly learned that harvest does not just happen in the field. It happens around kitchen counters, in coolers packed for the day and in meals timed to the rhythm of planting and harvest. When she stepped away from a corporate career to focus on her family, she brought the same intention and energy with her. Food became a way to support the work happening outside. Harvest days are long, unpredictable and demanding. Meals need to be ready when crews are hungry, flexible when plans change and sturdy enough to travel from kitchen to field. Frieders began developing harvest meals that could meet those needs, relying on practical ingredients, efficient preparation and recipes that hold up whether eaten immediately or hours later. Those meals quickly became a creative outlet. Frieders started sharing her recipes and ideas with friends, then a wider audience, and This Farm Girl Cooks was born. What began as a way to document harvest meals grew into a food blog built for real life. Her recipes focus on simplicity without sacrificing flavor, using freezer staples like frozen vegetables and everyday pantry ingredients, including soy-based staples that naturally show up in her cooking. Frieders’ approach resonates because it is grounded and intentional. She is not chasing trends or perfection. She is focused on feeding people well. Her harvest meals are designed to be filling, nourishing and enjoyable, whether they are delivered to the field or served around the table at the end of the day. Beyond recipes, Frieders shares glimpses of family life on the farm. Her kids are often part of the process, helping in the kitchen and learning firsthand how food fits into the larger picture of farm life. Meals become moments to slow down, reconnect and reset during busy seasons. For Frieders, cooking is about more than getting dinner on the table. It is about connection. “Food is more than just food,” she says. “It builds community. It shows love. Cooking is love made visible.” Today, This Farm Girl Cooks reaches both farm and non-farm readers who are drawn to Frieders’ calm, capable voice. Her platform offers practical recipes, honest storytelling and a welcoming view of modern farm life. Readers can find her work at ThisFarmGirlCooks.com and follow along on Facebook at This Farm Girl Cooks where she shares harvest meals, family favorites and everyday cooking made for real life. Easy Pork Stir-Fry By Deanne Frieders, This Farm Girl Cooks Designed for busy farm days and weeknights alike, this pork stir-fry comes together quickly using frozen vegetables and a simple soy sauce-based sauce. It is flexible, filling and easy to eat on the go. Pork Stir-Fry Ingredients

1/4 cup reduced-sodium soy sauce
1/2 cup water
1 teaspoon minced garlic
1/4 cup honey
1 tablespoon cornstarch
1 pound pork tenderloin
1 tablespoon olive oil (or vegetable, sesame or peanut oil)
24 ounces frozen stir-fry vegetable blend

Serves: 4 Total time: About 25 minutes Directions

In a small bowl, whisk the soy sauce, water, garlic, honey and cornstarch. Set aside.
Slice the pork tenderloin in half lengthwise, then cut into 1/4-inch slices.
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and swirl to coat the pan.
Add pork and cook, stirring, until nearly cooked through, about 4 minutes.
Add frozen vegetables and cook until thawed and heated through.
Increase heat to high. Add the sauce and cook, stirring constantly, until it begins to boil.
Reduce heat to low and simmer 1 to 2 minutes, until the sauce thickens and coats the pork and vegetables. Remove from heat.

To Serve: Over rice, cauliflower rice or noodles Substitution: Tamari or coconut aminos may be used in place of soy sauce. Blueberry Baked Oatmeal By Deanne Frieders, This Farm Girl Cooks This blueberry baked oatmeal is a make-ahead breakfast that can be sliced, stored and reheated throughout the week. Lightly sweetened and family friendly, it works just as well for busy mornings as it does for weekend brunch. Blueberry Baked Oatmeal Ingredients

3 cups old-fashioned rolled oats
2 teaspoons baking soda
1 teaspoon cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon sea salt
2 eggs, lightly beaten
1/2 cup pure maple syrup
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 1/2 cups milk
1 pint blueberries, fresh or frozen (do not thaw)

Makes: 9 squares Total time: About 45 minutes Directions

Heat oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9-by-9-inch baking dish.
In a medium bowl, whisk the oats, baking soda, cinnamon and salt.
In a separate bowl, whisk the eggs, maple syrup, vanilla and milk.
Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir to combine.
Gently fold in the blueberries.
Transfer the mixture to the prepared dish and spread evenly.
Bake 35 to 40 minutes, until the center is set. Cool 15 to 20 minutes before slicing.

To Serve: As is, or with yogurt or an extra drizzle of maple syrup Make-ahead: Refrigerate baked squares or freeze individually wrapped portions; reheat briefly before serving.

The post This Farm Girl Cooks – Deanne Frieders appeared first on American Soybean Association.

Cultivating Hope: Supporting Mental Health in Agriculture

Vanessa Hunt — Tue, 20 Jan 2026 21:42:28 +0000

By Rural Minds Farming has always required resilience. Each season brings new uncertainties, and every soybean grower knows the pressures that come with working the land. In recent years, those pressures have grown. Volatile markets, rising input costs, unpredictable weather and supply chain disruptions have pushed stress levels to new heights—and the impact extends far beyond the fields. A recent American Farm Bureau Federation survey found that more than half of rural adults—and nearly two-thirds of farmers and farm workers—have experienced increased stress and mental health challenges compared to a few years ago. Also, according to the Center for Disease Control, farmers are estimated to be 3.5 times more likely to die by suicide than those in other occupations. Yet access to mental healthcare remains limited in many rural communities. Unique Pressures of Farm Life Mental health challenges can affect anyone, but the stressors of farm life are unique. A farm is more than a business—it’s a home, a livelihood and often a multigenerational legacy. That deep connection brings pride and fulfillment, but also immense pressure. Carrying on family traditions, managing debt, navigating global markets and coping with erratic weather can lead to anxiety and depression. Stigma makes seeking help even harder. In many rural areas, mental health struggles are still not openly discussed, leaving farmers feeling isolated or unsure of where to turn. Breaking the Silence Founded in 2021, Rural Minds is the only national nonprofit organization focused exclusively on fighting for mental health equity for people in rural America. Our mission is to connect people in rural communities—including those in agriculture—with life-saving mental health information and resources. We also amplify the voices of farmers who have experienced mental health challenges and found support and healing. Hearing from others who have walked similar paths helps to get past the stigma and shows that reaching out is a sign of strength. Through partnerships with agricultural organizations like the American Soybean Association, other mental health nonprofits and funding from corporations and individual donors, Rural Minds provides free mental health resources tailored to farmers and rural residents. These include tips for how to recognize when someone may be struggling, starting conversations about mental health and information on where to find support. Recognizing the Warning Signs Could Save a Life If you notice any of the following, it could mean a person may be considering suicide:

Talking about wanting to die or being a burden to others
Expressing hopelessness, sadness, anxiety, rage or intense emotional pain
Increasing alcohol or drug use, withdrawing from others or acting recklessly
Neglecting their farm, selling off equipment or livestock or falling behind on bills

If You See Warning Signs, Take Action Now more than ever, it’s important for farmers to take care of their own mental health and that of their family, friends and neighbors.

Ask directly if the person you’re concerned about is considering suicide.
In a crisis, call 988 and contact a healthcare provider, counselor or social worker.
Reduce access to lethal means, such as firearms and medication when possible.

You’re Not Alone As soybean growers prepare for another season, remember that caring for mental health is just as essential as caring for your crops. Together, we can cultivate hope and ensure the people who feed and fuel our nation have the support they need. If you or someone you know is in emotional distress, call or text 988. The 988 Lifeline provides confidential support 24/7. In addition, you can visit soygrowers.com/soyhelp-nationalresources-info/ for ASA’s #SoyHelp National Emotional Wellbeing Resources and the Rural Minds’ website at RuralMinds.org for free rural-focused mental health resources.

The post Cultivating Hope: Supporting Mental Health in Agriculture appeared first on American Soybean Association.

Highlights and Hurdles: ASA Celebrates Important Wins in 2025, Focuses on Challenges Ahead

Vanessa Hunt — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 21:30:05 +0000

By Allison Jenkins As the calendar moves through its final months of 2025, countdowns are everywhere—top songs, best moments, biggest headlines. For the American Soybean Association, the countdown for its 105th anniversary year looks a little different: it’s about the advocacy achievements that mattered most to farmers and the unfinished business left to address. Thanks to grassroots engagement and the active presence of ASA members and staff on Capitol Hill, several long-time policy battles ended with clear victories. Yet, many important issues remain unresolved, setting the stage for continued advocacy in 2026 and beyond. “Our farmer-leaders have really stepped up,” said Alexa Combelic, ASA’s executive director of government affairs. “Their support is a big reason why we achieved so many successes this year. But there’s a lot left to do. Our industry has some real challenges ahead.” In honor of ASA’s century-plus-five milestone, here are five highlights in soy advocacy this year and five hurdles to tackle next.

Photo courtesy of North Dakota Soybean Processors

Highlights

Boosting Biofuel Demand

For soybeans, renewable fuels are a strong source of demand, and 2025 delivered major victories in this sector. At the top of the list is the Environmental Protection Agency’s proposed 2026-27 Renewable Volume Obligations (RVOs), which exceeded ASA’s expectations and if finalized, will raise biomass-based diesel levels to 5.61 billion gallons for 2026. “President Trump wants to establish American energy dominance, and there is a huge opportunity in biofuels,” Combelic said. “If that industry is doing well, it goes beyond just the farm gate. It’s the entire value chain.” The RVO proposal also prioritizes domestic feedstocks by halving the Renewable Identification Number (RIN) credits for imports, such as Chinese used cooking oil and Brazilian tallow that cannibalized market share U.S. products like soy. “We asked that EPA do more oversight and testing of what was coming in, and they realized how many resources it would take to do that,” Combelic said. “Instead, they opted to create a program that doesn’t incentivize those imports. It’s actually quite elegant in its simplicity.” Likewise, the newly updated 45Z Clean Fuel Production Credit included in the federal budget reconciliation legislation, known as the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act,” requires the use of North American feedstocks. In addition, the revisions to 45Z eliminate indirect land use change penalties for agricultural feedstocks, which had lowered biofuel production tax credits for fuels made with soy.

In May, ASA President Caleb Ragland (KY) testified before the U.S. Senate Finance Committee during a hearing on “Trade in Critical Supply Chains.”

“When Congress started working on this tax legislation, ASA had two big goals: eliminate the indirect land use change penalty and make the tax credit applicable only to domestic feedstocks,” said Stephen Censky, ASA CEO. “People said we would never achieve it. Guess what? We succeeded on both fronts, and that’s a big win long term for soybean farmers.”

Passing Farm Priorities

ASA’s advocacy also helped secure other agricultural wins in the reconciliation bill, including an increase in the soybean reference price from $8.40 to $10 per bushel, a change that will ripple through future baselines. Additionally, provisions like the permanent extension of the Section 199 pass-through deduction and the $15 million estate tax exemption add stability for farm families. “These are needs ASA has been championing for years,” Combelic said. “In a time when farmers are facing economic uncertainty, they can rely on the fact that these tax provisions were made permanent and will support their operations.”

Expanding Trade Promotion

In another hard-fought victory, ASA celebrated a more than two-fold increase in funding for international market development, also included in the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act.” Funding for the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Market Access Program (MAP), which supports U.S. exporters in developing markets abroad, and Foreign Market Development (FMD), which works to build demand for American farm products, had been stagnant for decades. But beginning in 2027, a new Supplemental Agricultural Trade Promotion Program will allocate between $268 million and $285 million annually for similar activities. Existing MAP and FMD allocations will remain unchanged—$200 million and $35 million respectively—but the supplemental program will run parallel, more than doubling those dollars for activities such as market research, consumer outreach and trade facilitation. “This equips us to expand markets globally,” Combelic said. “While China remains unfinished business, stronger promotion funding means we can continue market expansion everywhere else.”

In March, ASA leaders and staff visited the White House to discuss championing U.S. agriculture. From left: Alexa Combelic, ASA executive director of government affairs; Scott Metzger, ASA vice president; Josh Gackle, ASA chairman; Caleb Ragland, ASA president; and Virginia Houston, ASA director of government affairs.

Debunking MAHA Myths

When the draft “Make America Healthy Again” (MAHA) strategy attacked pesticides and seed oils, ASA went to bat—building strong bipartisan support, mobilizing farmer voices and educating lawmakers. The final report, released in September, retracted those claims. “ASA led the coalition of over 300 ag groups to push back on the first MAHA report,” Censky said. “We had more than eight meetings with top White House personnel, and we were successful in getting corrections made in the second report. I’m really proud of that.” A key strategy was reminding policymakers that EPA’s science-based review process already ensures the safety of crop protection products. “In the initial report, critical crop protection tools were blamed for a lot of health concerns, even though science doesn’t back that up,” said Madelyn Derks, ASA director of government affairs. “There’s already a rigorous registration system through EPA, and that’s something we wanted to highlight in our advocacy.”

Delivering on Dicamba

The future of another key crop protection tool, dicamba, has also been in question over the past few years, but EPA proposed the registration of three over-the-top products in 2025: Engenia, XtendiMax and Tavium. The decision was welcomed by ASA farmer-members who rely on this technology to control broadleaf weeds in dicamba-tolerant soybeans. “I think the most important thing is that the EPA is moving on this,” Derks said. “Weeds can easily steal more than 50% of a soybean crop’s yield, so we need a dicamba label that’s usable, workable and cost-effective.” Previous over-the-top dicamba labels were vacated in February 2024 by a federal court, and the products were unavailable to growers during the 2025 growing season. The re-registration is pending while EPA wades through the vast number of submissions made through a public comment period that ended Sept. 6, but Derks says she’s hopeful for a positive outcome. “ASA submitted comments after talking with our growers and our regulatory team to learn their perspective,” she said. “We know that EPA has their work cut out for them, but we want them to take those comments into consideration and make the necessary changes.” Hurdles

Securing Soy in Trade

Despite strong advocacy by ASA and its members, in early October soybeans still have been left out of trade negotiations between the U.S. and China in 2025.

In his Feb. 5 testimony before the Senate Agriculture Committee, ASA Chairman Josh Gackle (ND) emphasized the need for a comprehensive five-year farm bill and urgent action on economic challenges facing U.S. soybean farmers. He warned that potential tariffs and trade uncertainty, particularly with key export partners, threaten global market access.

The omission underscores the stakes of maintaining market access to the world’s top soybean buyer. “This is the second time we’ve seen what happens when conflict disrupts trade—we lose a huge portion of our market,” Combelic said. “Soybean growers pride themselves on producing the largest export commodity, and we need that China market to do it.” Among ASA’s efforts is a high-profile media presence that spotlights the issue well beyond the agricultural stage, Censky said. “We initiated a major campaign to lift up the message that any trade deal with China has to include soybeans,” he said. “I think we’ve been massively successful. We’re hearing from the administration that soy will be part of a deal, but the proof of the pudding will be in the tasting.”

Completing the Farm Bill

While many essential agricultural provisions were included in the reconciliation package, ASA continues to push for a so-called “Farm Bill 2.0” to finish the job. Conservation programs, crop insurance and priorities such as the Ag Labeling Uniformity Act are among the pieces that remain on the table. “We’re partway there, but we still need a full farm bill to provide authorizations for key programs and ensure the farm safety net remains functioning,” Combelic said. “ASA continues to engage with our agriculture champions in congress to make sure our priorities are known. Still, we likely will need to work through another extension before congress has ample time to deliberate a larger package next year.”

Dialing in Dicamba

While soybean farmers welcomed EPA’s movement toward a new dicamba label, some parts of the proposal could seriously limit its use. For example, cutoffs above 95 degrees and limits on tank mixes would hamstring growers fighting resistant weeds.

ASA Executive Director of Government Affairs Alexa Combelic (far right) joined Shannon Campagna with Portfolio Strategies and Brian Ronholm with Consumer Reports on a panel to discuss the Make America Healthy Again Commission and potential impacts to agriculture. The panel was part of the North American Agricultural Journalists annual meeting and was moderated by Helena Bottemiller Evich of Food Fix.

“The devil’s in the details,” Derks said. “As we dug into the new label, we noticed that there were restrictions that would essentially make dicamba unusable in a lot of our southern states. We’ll continue to have conversations with EPA about providing additional flexibility.”

Protecting Soy’s Image

Soy oil remains a lightning rod in food and health debates, from infant formula reviews to emerging definitions of “ultra-processed foods.” ASA is working to protect soy’s food-manufacturing market, which accounts for half of domestic demand. “ASA wants to ensure that soy oil is not inappropriately maligned in updated dietary guidelines for Americans,” Combelic said. “We have to keep reminding policymakers and the public that soybean oil is healthy, affordable and essential in countless food products.” ASA is anticipating more localized efforts to impose warning labels or restrictions on seed oils and pesticides, requiring strong coordination across the organization. “Increasingly, we’re seeing the MAHA movement at the state level where they’re trying to require disclosure for seed oils on packaging and warnings about pesticides that aren’t supported by science,” Censky said. “We’ll be working very closely with our state associations and other allies to try to prevent that from happening.”

Relieving Farm Stress

During ASA Hill visits in July, Iowa soybean leaders met with Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA). Photo courtesy of the Iowa Soybean Association

Soybean farmers continue to be squeezed by the loss of Chinese demand and the rising cost of crop inputs. A strong soybean harvest is expected, but per-bushel market prices for this year’s beans are less than the per-bushel cost to produce them. “The ag industry is in a world of hurt right now,” Combelic said. “All of these things will shape the narrative as we advocate for policies to help put growers in a better financial position.” Ultimately, ASA and its farmer-members want to see solid, long-term solutions, not just a temporary bailout, but Censky said he and his team have been in conversations with Congress and USDA about a program to “bridge the gap.” “We’ve been active behind the scenes working on some sort of assistance to help farmers stay in business as we wait on improved markets,” Censky said.

The post Highlights and Hurdles: ASA Celebrates Important Wins in 2025, Focuses on Challenges Ahead appeared first on American Soybean Association.

The Unsaturated Advantage: How Seed Oils Became the Quiet Hero of Heart Health

Vanessa Hunt — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 20:18:46 +0000

By Sophia Sackleh, National Oilseed Processors Association We use vegetable oils every day—whether we are cooking dinner, preparing snacks, or feeding infants with formula. Also known as seed oils, this group includes soybean, canola, sunflower, cottonseed, and others. Despite the recent attention they’ve received, vegetable oils are hardly new to our diets. Archeological evidence shows that humans have used oils such as soy, sesame, and sunflower for thousands of years. Soy oil, for example, was produced by East Asian cultures as early as 1,000 A.D. From the ancient world to today’s kitchens, vegetable oils have played an essential role in human diets, and science continues to highlight their benefits. Nutritionally, vegetable oils are prized for their high levels of polyunsaturated fatty acids, or PUFAs. These include omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids—both deemed “essential” because our bodies can’t make them on their own and therefore must get them from our diets. Their benefits to human health are both wide-ranging and vital to improving rates of chronic disease. Omega-6 fatty acids, for instance, are critical for neural and visual development in infants and children, which is why vegetable oils are a common ingredient in infant formula. In adults, omega-6 fatty acids are crucial to lowering harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, raise protective high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and improve insulin sensitivity—all which help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as type-2 diabetes. Decades of research back up these findings. For example, a 2019 American Heart Association analysis of 30 prospective studies from 13 different countries found that higher levels of linoleic acid, the main fatty acid in omega-6s, were strongly associated with lower risks of cardiovascular disease, cardiovascular mortality, and ischemic stroke. Similarly, a 2018 study found that higher intake of linoleic acid was linked with lower cardiovascular mortality, reinforcing dietary recommendations to include more PUFAs in the diet. The health benefits are especially clear when vegetable oils replace dietary saturated fat sources, such as butter or tallow. For example, according to an article in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology titled “Saturated Fats Compared With Unsaturated Fats and Sources of Carbohydrates in Relation to Risk of Coronary Heart Disease,” replacing just 5% of daily energy intake from saturated fats with PUFAs is associated with a 25% reduction in risk of coronary heart disease (CHD). Another long-term cohort study of 200,000 adults performed over the course of 33 years found that those who replaced a tablespoon of butter a day with a tablespoon of vegetable oil had a 17% lower risk of death from cancer. This shift from animal-based fats to vegetable oils has been one of the most impactful dietary changes of the past century. When products like Crisco were introduced in the 1930s, Americans began swapping out butter and lard for heart healthy oils. The result was striking: between 1940 and 1996, U.S. deaths from heart disease fell by 56%, as published in the article “Decline in Cardiovascular Mortality” from Circulation Research. The reason for this change in health outcomes comes down to basic chemistry. Saturated fat molecules are straight, allowing them to pack tightly in the bloodstream and contribute to cholesterol plaque buildup—a major driver of high blood pressure, heart attacks, and strokes. Unsaturated fats, by contrast, are kinked and move more freely through the bloodstream, reducing plaque formation and supporting heart health. Still, vegetable oils face criticism. Some claim that eating too many omega-6 fatty acids can interfere with omega-3 absorption. Yet research shows that omega-6 consumption does not inhibit the body’s ability to absorb omega-3s, and the real issue is that the American diet is chronically low in omega-3s. Rather than cutting back on omega-6s, nutrition experts recommend adding more omega-3s to the diet to reach the daily recommended intake. Another concern involves arachidonic acid (ARA), which some argue is inflammatory. While linoleic acid can convert to ARA in the body, studies show the amount converted is minimal. In fact, according to Harvard Health, ARA has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties, and overall, omega-6 consumption has been shown to reduce—not increase—markers of inflammation. Nutrition can sometimes feel overwhelming, with new trends and advice popping up all the time. Yet one takeaway remains clear: balance matters. Choosing vegetable oils in place of saturated fats is one of the easiest ways to support long-term health—helping our hearts, reducing risk of chronic disease, and giving our bodies the essential nutrients they need. It’s a simple swap that makes a lasting difference, proving that everyday choices in the kitchen really can add up.

The post The Unsaturated Advantage: How Seed Oils Became the Quiet Hero of Heart Health appeared first on American Soybean Association.

WISHH Celebrates 25 Years of Expanding Global Markets for U.S. Soy

Vanessa Hunt — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 20:12:57 +0000

WISHH marks 25 years of finding new markets for soybean growers across Asia, Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa, including in Cambodia, where WISHH introduced high-quality U.S. soy for fish feed.

Twenty-five years ago, a group of visionary U.S. soybean grower-leaders recognized the need to diversify the use of their crops with new markets around the globe. Their forward-thinking led to the creation of the American Soybean Association’s World Initiative for Soy in Human Health program. This year, WISHH celebrates a quarter century of impact building long-term demand for U.S. soy in developing and emerging markets through trade, development and food security partnerships. “We were supporting a program that would help provide a good source of protein for regions around the world,” recalled Illinois soybean grower CW Gaffner, a founding farmer of WISHH whose son, Scott, now serves as vice-chair of WISHH’s executive committee. “And I thought we could do that with U.S. soy right from our farms.” From its earliest years, WISHH began bringing that vision to life with projects designed to create long-term markets for U.S. soy. WISHH’s farmer leaders’ methodical approach has seen U.S. soy introduced in worldwide food and feed markets. “We farmers are used to obtaining immediate results,” Scott said. “But WISHH’s model is designated for longer commitments with the hope for continued demand as the years increase.” That long-term commitment has seen WISHH introduce high-quality protein to new markets in 28 countries across Asia, Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa. Across these regions, WISHH works with business leaders, farmers, local governments and even academic institutions to build new value chains for U.S. soy. In Latin America, WISHH has supported food manufacturers in developing innovative soy-based products that respond to evolving consumer preferences for nutritious, affordable protein. In sub-Saharan Africa, WISHH has helped strengthen aquaculture and poultry industries through training programs and technical assistance that highlight the value of U.S. soybean meal in animal feed. In Asia, the initiative has been instrumental in advancing both food and feed applications, including aquaculture development. A standout example is Cambodia where the USDA-funded Commercialization of Aquaculture for Sustainable Trade Cambodia project helped transform the country’s aquaculture sector. By introducing new technology and practices, CAST increased production of high-demand freshwater fish while highlighting the reliability and quality of U.S. soy in feed. In 2025, U.S. soybean farmers visited the country to see CAST’s progress. “It’s been very rewarding to see the success of WISHH in places like Cambodia over the last 25 years,” said WISHH Committee Chair Morey Hill. “And I feel excited that our partners such as USDA have entrusted the WISHH team to continue its work blazing a trail for U.S. soy in Cambodia and other regions around the world.” These projects serve as models for other WISHH regions as well. WISHH continues to build aquaculture projects in multiple countries in Africa. Today, WISHH leverages U.S. Department of Agriculture funding with support from Qualified State Soybean Boards and the United Soybean Board to create partnerships on three different continents, creating long-lasting trade relationships. “As WISHH celebrates its 25th anniversary, its global footprint and the demand for U.S. soy continues to expand and so does its partnerships,” concluded WISHH Executive Director Gena Perry. “I think that’s something the farmers and staff who began at WISHH a quarter century ago can be proud of.”

The post WISHH Celebrates 25 Years of Expanding Global Markets for U.S. Soy appeared first on American Soybean Association.

Spotlight on Soy Policy: How ASA Shapes the Future of Farming

Vanessa Hunt — Mon, 03 Nov 2025 20:09:32 +0000

By Jordan Bright, ASA Director of Social & Digital Media From shifting markets to uncontrollable weather, soybean farmers juggle challenges at home and abroad while producing the food and fuel the world relies on. While they navigate these unpredictable landscapes, the American Soybean Association makes sure their voices are heard on policy and trade in Washington, D.C. Throughout 2025, each American Soybean magazine has broken down ASA’s main priority policy issues and why advocating for them is so important. This final quarter, we explore transportation and infrastructure; sustainability and conservation; and appropriations. Transportation & Infrastructure When U.S. farmers have harvested the last soybean for the season and the grain hoppers are full, soybeans begin their long journey from field to market. The U.S. soybean industry relies on a multimodal transportation network including truck, rail and waterways to move its products to exports or domestic feed, fuel and biobased markets. U.S. infrastructure is historically one of the largest advantages American soybean farmers have over competitors abroad, and a modernized infrastructure that supports reliable transportation is imperative to U.S. soy’s continued success. “Throughout all areas of policy, a strong farmer voice provides important perspective and helps move the needle. Infrastructure efficiency improves basis. Educating lawmakers about the need for infrastructure investments for farmers, whether or not that key infrastructure is within a specific Congressional district, helps drive broader geographic support for major projects,” said ASA Executive Director of Government Affairs Alexa Combelic. To ensure soybeans can move seamlessly to market, ASA advocates on Capitol Hill for directing federal infrastructure funding toward improving transportation systems, including crumbling locks and dams, rural roads and bridges. The U.S. inland waterways system includes nearly 12,000 miles of navigable waters and hundreds of aging locks and dams—the majority of which have exceeded their originally engineered 50-year lifespans, including those on the Mississippi and Illinois rivers. Despite its outdated infrastructure, inland waterways systems remain the most cost-effective and efficient way to transport agricultural products to export terminals. While several legislative wins over the past several years have helped secure new and increased funding to upgrade the U.S. inland waterways system, much of the infrastructure remains outdated and requires continued advocacy to secure the funding and authorizations needed to address the construction backlog. Much like the locks and dams on the inland waterways system, aging roads and bridges can also hinder the ability of soybean growers to move their products to market in a cost-effective manner. The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act provided new and expanded funding for highway and road repair projects across the country. Additionally, it included funding for a pilot project that seeks to support bioproducts like soy-based transportation related construction materials. Sustainability & Conservation U.S. soybean farmers have long been committed to efforts that support sustainability, which includes environmental, economic and social pillars, along with conservation. Sustainability policy in Washington, D.C. is ever evolving. Through executive orders, rulemaking and legislation, ASA must be prepared to help shape and react to a variety of proposals. ASA farmer-leaders appreciate the opportunity to be engaged in legislative, regulatory, and most importantly, on-farm efforts that will preserve the future of farming and the future world at large. “Policy conversations are increasingly placing sustainability and conservation at the forefront of human and soil health,” said ASA Policy Manager Carson Fort. “Our growers understand what it takes to protect their most vital resource—the land—and they work every day to ensure their practices preserve it. ASA advocates to ensure they have access to the tools, whether technical assistance or advanced technology, that enable them to produce more while using fewer resources.” ASA follows a set of sustainability policy principles intended to help guide its advocacy efforts. The topline principles include supporting policies that will maintain and improve economic sustainability of soybean farmers across its 30 soybean-producing states; there is no “one size fits all” solution to on-farm sustainability; supporting voluntary and incentive-based approaches and opposing sustainability programs that include mandates and penalties or that remove valuable agricultural land from production. Soybean producers are already employing sustainability practices on their farms, and ASA helps advocate for future policies to include both retroactive support and prospective incentives. Appropriations Every U.S. government agency relies on appropriations—the bills lawmakers must pass to allocate resources—to fund specific programs and projects. “More urgently than ever, farmers need clarity as their financial stresses approach disaster,” said ASA Policy Manager Joe Prosser. “Programmatic assistance and market expansion efforts work to provide certainty as producers attempt to navigate low commodity prices, record inflation and historically high input prices.” ASA advocates for increased government funding for programs and agency operations benefiting soybean farmers, including additional resources for EPA’s Office of Pesticide Programs, increased funding for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers dredging operations and capital improvement projects, and agriculture marketing and research initiatives. When needed, ASA can also use the appropriations process to push for critical financial assistance programs to support farmers after economic or environmental disasters. “All of ASA’s appropriations priorities can be traced back to advocating for increased demand, effective production and efficient delivery,” Prosser said.

The post Spotlight on Soy Policy: How ASA Shapes the Future of Farming appeared first on American Soybean Association.