New Soy Protein Health Claim Approved in Australia and New Zealand for Heart Health

New Health Claim for Soy in Australia and New Zealand

On March 31, 2026, the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) and Soy Nutrition Institute Global (SNI Global) announced a pivotal moment for soy-based nutrition with the approval of a general level health claim regarding soy protein and heart health in Australia and New Zealand. This claim aligns with similar approvals already in place in nations such as the United States, Canada, and Japan, showcasing the increasing global recognition of soy’s health benefits.

The approved health claim asserts, "Consuming 20–25 g of isolated soybean protein from foods or beverages daily, as part of a healthy, balanced diet, contributes to heart health by supporting healthy cholesterol levels." This endorsement highlights the protein's significant role in bolstering heart health through its ability to manage cholesterol levels effectively.

Understanding Isolated Soy Protein

Isolated soy protein, derived from soybeans, boasts an impressive composition of over 90% protein content. This high-quality protein is essential for individuals of all ages, supplying all nine necessary amino acids required for children's and adults' health. As a versatile ingredient, isolated soy protein can enhance the nutritional profile of various food products, including bars, cereals, baked goods, meat alternatives, and fortified plant-based milks.

Interestingly, just one to two daily servings of soy foods—equating to approximately 20–25g of soy protein—can be achieved easily through products like a soy protein bar (offering around 17g protein) or a soy beverage, which typically provides between 15 and 20g of protein per serving.

The Global Heart Health Concern

Heart disease remains one of the most pressing health challenges around the world, with abnormal cholesterol levels acting as a key risk factor for cardiologists. Research underscores the efficacy of soy protein in mitigating high cholesterol levels. It has been substantiated that soy foods not only deliver high-quality protein but also assist in lowering total and LDL cholesterol, all the while maintaining a low saturated fat content.

Alan Barclay, Ph.D., who led the submission to Food Standards Australia New Zealand (FSANZ), emphasized, "With about 60% of Australian adults and a substantial number of New Zealanders presenting abnormal blood lipid levels, including soy in one’s diet offers a practical nutritional approach to achieve optimal cholesterol levels and overall heart health."

Under FSANZ regulations, general level health claims are required to have a solid scientific basis, adhere to strict nutrient profiling guidelines, and can be utilized on food labels and promotional materials within Australia and New Zealand.

Commitment to Health and Nutrition

The affirmation of soy protein’s benefits for heart health not only enhances the value of U.S. soy products but also signifies the ongoing commitment of farmers and producers to cultivate sustainable soybeans while delivering nutritious soy foods and oils worldwide. Will McNair, Director of Soy Foods and Oil at USSEC, remarked, "This recognition underscores the importance of U.S. Soy in the global food supply chain."

The U.S. food ingredients company IFF has also played a pivotal role in advancing the general level health claim on soy, tirelessly promoting the accessibility and positive impact of soy-based nutrition in both Australia and New Zealand. The company is set to spearhead the implementation of this health claim across the regions, aiming to foster wider acceptance and incorporation of soy products in everyday diets.

This significant development, supported in part by the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service and the United Soybean Board, paves the way for a healthier population, helping consumers understand the positive health implications of incorporating soy protein into their daily meals.

With the backing of science and regulatory endorsement, the expansion of soy protein's health claims could inspire individuals worldwide to adopt heart-healthy eating habits, ultimately fostering a global community dedicated to enhancing health through informed dietary choices.