Soy protein isolate

Soy protein isolate is a food ingredient obtained from soybeans, specifically through a process that removes most fats and carbohydrates, leaving a product with a very high protein content (around 90%). It is generally presented as a fine powder, white or light beige in color, and is widely used in recipes to enrich the protein content without adding many calories or fats.

The origin of this ingredient lies in the soybean (Glycine max), a legume that has been cultivated in Asia for thousands of years and is currently one of the main sources of vegetable protein worldwide. Soy protein isolate is especially popular in vegetarian and vegan diets, as well as in the processed food industry as a substitute for animal protein.

Its nutritional properties include its high content of complete proteins (with all essential amino acids), low fat and carbohydrate content, and its easy digestibility. It is also a good source of isoflavones, compounds with potential health benefits, including antioxidant and hormonal effects.

In the Latin American Spanish-speaking context, soy protein isolate may also be known as aislado proteico de soya or simply proteína aislada de soya. In some countries, it is called proteína vegetal aislada or, more generally, protein isolate de soya.

This ingredient is ideal for use in smoothies, energy bars, bakery products, sports supplements, and various healthy recipes where one wishes to increase the protein content without significantly altering the flavor or texture of the dish.