Soybeans are one of the world's most essential oilseeds, cultivated extensively across the Americas, Asia, and increasingly in other regions. Each bean contains about 18–20% oil and over 40% protein, making it a dual-purpose crop for edible oil and animal feed. Soybean oil is one of the most widely consumed cooking oils globally, while the high-protein meal is a vital component of poultry, livestock, and aquaculture feed.

Beyond food and feed, soybeans are also used in industrial products, from biodiesel to plastics, inks, and adhesives. They are an excellent source of isoflavones and other bioactive compounds, contributing to their popularity in health foods and nutraceuticals. The United States, Brazil, Argentina, China, and India are the leading producers, shaping international trade flows. Soybeans play a pivotal role in food security and are central to the global protein and vegetable oil economy.