4/19/2005 ST. LOUIS, April 19 -- The United Soybean Board (USB)congratulates the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) on therelease of the new Food Guidance System. This powerful tool will helpeducate Americans to make healthier food choices. In combination withphysical activity, these food guidelines will contribute to maintaining ahealthy weight and enhance overall wellness.

USB is committed to support and extend this healthy food message. The newFood Guidance System recommends that consumers eat more fruits andvegetables, and other foods that supply dietary fiber and nutrients likeiron, magnesium, potassium, folic acid and calcium. In addition, consumersshould take care to limit foods that are high in saturated fat andcholesterol. Including soy as part of a daily diet can help consumers meetthese healthy food goals, and the variety of products available makes soya great fit every day.

Soybeans are rich in fiber and provide a variety of vitamins and mineralsincluding iron, potassium and folic acid. Consuming soy protein incombination with other protein sources is a great way to reduce overallcalories, saturated fat and cholesterol. In addition to providingessential nutrients, soy protein may boost cardiovascular health, lowercholesterol and blood pressure, and strengthen bones.

For those who want a soy beverage, calcium-fortified soymilk provides arich source of calcium and other vital nutrients. In addition to soyfoods,consumers can prepare a variety of foods using liquid soybean oil. Thishealthy oil has no trans fat or cholesterol and is high in beneficialpoly- and monounsaturated fats.

These numerous benefits certainly come as no surprise to consumers.According to the Consumer Attitudes about Nutrition National Report, 2004-2005, 74 percent of U.S. consumers perceive soy products as healthy, andone- quarter of Americans consume soyfoods or soy beverages once a week ormore. Including soy in an everyday diet is a great way to meet the healthyrecommendations of the new Food Guidance System. For more information onsoy, visit www.talksoy.com.

The United Soybean Board is a farmer-lead organization comprised of 64farmer-directors. USB oversees the investments of the soybean checkoff onbehalf of all U.S. soybean farmers.

Source: United Soybean Board