Soybeans are ready to harvest in September or October. When the seeds are mature, the upright vine and foliage begin to shrivel and the leaves fall away. Harvest must be completed before the pods shatter and burst open. All harvesting is done by machine. The soybean is the only vegetable food that is a complete protein.
Soybeans are also an excellent source of dietary fiber.
Lecithin is extracted from soybean oil. A natural emulsifier and lubricant, lecithin is used for everything from pharmaceuticals to protective coatings. For example, lecithin is used to keep the chocolate and cocoa butter in a candy bar from separating.