Purdue Students Innovate with Delicious Soy Snack in Indiana Soy Checkoff’s Inaugural Food Competition

For over 30 years, the Indiana Soybean Alliance has encouraged creative uses for soybeans through the Student Soybean Innovation Competition at Purdue University. This year’s standout was Soy Straws, a unique high-protein snack developed by Purdue students Anna Hicks, Rong Yang, and Sara Thomason.

Anna Hicks, a senior studying Food Science, shared the inspiration behind Soy Straws. “We took ideas from Chinese egg biscuits but made them dairy- and gluten-free,” she explained. “We wanted a snack that had a crispy, hollow shape, similar to popular items like Takis and veggie rolls. We seasoned our straws with garlic, ginger, sesame, and gluten-free soy sauce for a fun flavor.”

Their team, calling themselves The Edemamas, sees soybeans as a vital part of Indiana’s identity. As local students, they find inspiration in the abundance of soybeans around them. “Even though my future studies won’t focus on soybeans, I know I’ll turn to soy for protein solutions in my research,” Hicks noted. “Soy oil was easier to work with than coconut oil and has great potential for product formulations.”

The Edemamas celebrated their success by winning a $5,000 prize for their innovative snack. Their project highlights a growing trend toward healthy, plant-based snacks, which align with consumer demands for nutritious options.

Recent statistics show that plant-based food sales are rising. According to a report by the Plant Based Foods Association, sales grew 27% from 2020 to 2021, suggesting more people are seeking protein alternatives. This trend reflects a broader shift toward health-conscious eating.

The competition not only fosters innovation but also underscores the significance of soybeans in food manufacturing. As soy continues to gain recognition for its versatility and nutritional value, initiatives like the Student Soybean Innovation Competition will likely inspire more creative food solutions in the future.

To learn more about the Indiana Soybean Alliance and their work in innovation, you can visit their official website.

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