2008 saw an increased demand for IP soybeans from both the Asian Rim countries as well as the European Union. With the global inventory shortage, countries that demand non-GMO varieties for their food products became increasingly concerned about the long term viability of a steady source of top quality food grade soybeans. SeCan members who have contacts in Japan report their buyers made it clear they are not going to stop buying non-GMO white hilum soybeans from Canada.

Canada is well known for the extra value it can bring to an identity preserved program for food grade soybeans. Purity is the key to any IP program and its corresponding extra premium from buyers around the world.

It starts with a dedicated breeding program focused on conventional soybeans, such as at the University of Guelph and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Ontario. Traits including high protein, high sugar, and white hilum, along with high yields, set Canadian soybeans apart from other areas of the world that moved almost entirely to soybeans with GMO traits.

Once the soybean line is released, our pedigreed seed system takes over. For over a hundred years this proven program of inspection at the seed grower level means that certified seed is true to kind when purchased by Canadian growers. The elevator and processing system is in place to continue the purity of soybeans so overseas buyers can be assured of the trait they require.  During fall 2008 and continuing into 2009 we have seen IP premiums reach an all time high - in many cases up to $3.00/bushel for 2010 delivery.  

Increased acres of IP soybeans have been planted to ensure the demand is met. Many of these acres have the ‘OAC' prefix that is recognized around the world as the symbol of a high quality product.