ISA » Market Place » Soybean Varieties

When it comes to choosing the right soybean seed for your field, there are many options to consider. One of the most fundamental decisions is whether you want to produce a conventional or biotech (genetically modified) variety.

Conventional Soybeans

Conventional soybean varieties, also called non-GMO (genetically modified organism) varieties, are produced using traditional breeding methods. Although it may be harder to find some of these varieties due to the popularity of biotech varieties, you still can find them through a few suppliers. Below are names and contact information for several conventional soybean providers:

Baird Seed Company
Doug Baird
1122 Knox Highway 18, Williamsfield, IL 61489
P: (309) 639-2248
E: info@bairdseedcompany.com

Gateway Seed Company
Ken Heinzman
5517 Van Buren Road, Nashville, IL 62263
P: (618) 327-8000
E: info@gatewayseeds.com

U.S. Soy LLC
Ed Zimmer
2808 Thomasson Drive, Mattoon, IL 61938
P: (217) 235.1020
E: info@ussoy.com

Biotech Soybeans

Biotech soybeans, also called genetically modified soybeans (GMOs), are produced using biotechnology tools to introduce traits into a soybean plant. These traits may enhance production through pest, disease or weed resistance, or traits may enhance the end product for consumers by providing healthier oils or protein content. Most of the soybeans grown in the United States are biotech varieties, including the popular industry-leading herbicide-resistant varieties.

What is biotechnology?

According to SoyConnection.com, "biotechnology allow[s] plant breeders to carefully select and introduce beneficial traits to the crops grown for food. The results are environmentally friendlier agriculture and a more nutritious, healthful and abundant food supply." Many checkoff-funded research projects have led to advances in biotechnology, resulting in the introduction of several new enhanced varieties. Below are some quick facts about biotechnology:

• Modern biotechnology already has contributed greatly to the sustainability of U.S. soybean production.
• Technology also will play a role in expanding the world's supply of food, feed and renewable fuels.
• Biotechnology and other modern plant breeding methods are accelerating yield increases in soybeans and enhancing sustainability.
• Biotechnology provides us with an unprecedented weed management tool, which has led to increased conservation tillage practices that sequester carbon, reduce costs, lower fuel consumption, reduce run-off, improve water quality and save topsoil.