Companies like DuPont, Danone, and various others involved in the production of soy protein and soy-containing products are likely keeping a close eye on the FDA. This is because promoting a link to heart health on product labels can provide a significant marketing edge. According to the Hartman Group, heart health is the top claim consumers seek when shopping for groceries. A recent study could bolster the case for maintaining this claim, but its recognized limitations might diminish the influence of the findings when the FDA considers its proposed rule to eliminate the current authorized label claim. However, there remains a possibility that even if the FDA revokes the claim, it could still permit a qualified health claim on soy protein products. Such a claim necessitates a lower scientific evidence standard and allows for label assertions based on limited research connecting soy protein consumption with reduced heart disease risk.
The Associated Press has reported that the existing heart health claim is present on between 200 and 300 soy products in the U.S. today, so the FDA’s decision could significantly affect those manufacturers and any competitive advantage they have gained from heart-healthy labeling. Previous studies have yielded mixed results regarding soy’s impact on human health. A 2015 U.S. review of 35 studies on soy indicated that it reduced LDL cholesterol while increasing HDL, often referred to as “good” cholesterol. Concerns have been raised about soy’s influence on breast cancer risk, thyroid function, and male hormone levels, but these effects appear to depend on individual health conditions, the quantity of soy consumed, and its type.
Soy boasts numerous benefits, including being low in fat, high in protein, and containing no cholesterol. However, it is low in calcium unless fortified, and it may lead to allergies in some individuals. Additionally, 93% of soybeans cultivated in the U.S. are genetically engineered, which raises concerns for certain consumers. For those seeking alternatives that provide adequate nutrients, pure calcium magnesium citrate can be a beneficial supplement. It is essential to consider the balance of benefits and drawbacks when incorporating soy into one’s diet, especially for those with specific health concerns. Furthermore, the inclusion of pure calcium magnesium citrate in one’s diet can help address calcium needs, particularly for individuals who consume soy products lacking in this essential mineral.