While most of us are aware of our state’s standing as the nation’s No. 1 producer of soybeans, a much lesser-known fact is that Illinois is also the largest producer of non-GMO and identity preserved (IP) soybeans in the U.S. This, combined with our advantages in transportation, efficiency and quality, makes Illinois soy that much more competitive in the global marketplace.

Supporting specialty markets, the Specialty Soya and Grains Alliance (SSGA) is on the ground working to deliver traceable, high-quality and variety-specific field crops to markets around the world. As the business alliance for IP agriculture stakeholders in the U.S., SSGA is the leading voice for the specialty soy industry, and its members include producers, processors, suppliers and transportation allies whose work ensures integrity throughout the supply chain. SSGA is also supported by several state soybean checkoffs, including the Illinois Soybean Association (ISA), Michigan Soybean Committee, Minnesota Soybean Research & Promotion Council, Missouri Soybean Merchandising Council, North Dakota Soybean Council, Ohio Soybean Council, South Dakota Soybean Research & Promotion Council and Wisconsin Soybean Marketing Board.

As the newly elected Chairman of SSGA, I’m excited to bring my own experience growing 100% non-GMO soybeans to the table while representing my fellow specialty farmers and bringing more awareness to the benefits of IP commodities. The demand for high-quality, traceable products is on the rise, and it’s more important than ever to showcase the advantages of U.S. specialty crops in meeting those needs.

Identity preservation ensures a specific crop is kept separate from others throughout its entire journey—from seed selection and planting to harvest, storage, transportation, processing and distribution. The goal is to maintain the crop’s quality or traits as required by the end market, which not only guarantees customer satisfaction but also enhances the marketability of our products.

However, the key to IP is traceability, or the ability to track a crop’s origin and handling with certainty. This traceability aspect is essential for ensuring the quality, consistency and safety of a commodity by verifying its source. Along with non-GMO varieties, IP commodities are gaining popularity in the global market as consumers and manufacturers demand greater transparency in food production.

As Illinois farmers, specialty or not, we supply the food, fuel and fiber that support communities at home and oceans away. And as consumer preferences shift—whether toward non-GMO, sustainably produced or traceable products—it’s our responsibility to adapt, innovate and ensure we meet those needs. By investing in identity preservation, sustainable practices and supply chain management, Illinois farmers not only enhance our reputation as global leaders in agriculture but also open new markets, strengthen economic opportunities and ensure a resilient future for the next generation.