Phytochemicals are non-nutrient chemicals found in plants including legumes such as soybeans.
Hendrich and Murphy, faculty members in ISU's food science and human nutrition department, believe the phytochemicals may have health benefits for humans. The goal of their research is to determine the effect the phytochemicals and encourage the consumption of foods containing the components. Then we will establish methods to disseminate information on commonly eaten foods containing these components. Hendrich said a database will be constructed to describe the phytochemical contents of popular foods consumed in the United States. In addition, information on the health effects of the phytochemicals will be made available to the public and to health and nutrition professionals.