Soy is a bean. Within the plant species, it belongs to the legumes. The so-called miracle bean from East Asia looks almost like our native bush beans. In the Asian regions, there are hundreds of well-known preparation methods.
We also love recipes with soybeans. They are processed into patties and are also a nutritious dish in curry. And very tasty. Whether as a side dish with spinach or in tomato sauce, soybeans enrich many dishes.
Soy under criticism
These diverse uses of soybeans have a huge disadvantage. Because soy is now found in many products, not just as food or cheap animal feed. Soy is also found in cosmetics and medicines.
As a result, global demand continues to rise. To meet this enormous demand, soya is grown industrially. Extremely large cultivation areas are required for this. Taken together, these areas are now about the size of Germany and France together.
The crux of the matter is that much of this land is gained through deforestation and the clearing of forests. This destroys the habitat of numerous animal and plant species.
Then the gigantic monocultures have to be sprayed with several chemicals to control pests and weeds. These chemicals naturally end up in the soybean and on your plate, or in your four-legged friend’s bowl.
Incidentally, the oldest evidence of the cultivation and use of soy comes from China. Soybeans were grown there as early as 7000 BC.
Can dogs eat soy products?
There’s nothing wrong with feeding your dog soy now and then. Dogs often like to eat tofu, which consists of soybeans and water.
There are many ready-made dog foods with soy as an ingredient. You can also prepare your soy dog meals. To do this, buy individual, dried bean kernels in stores. Soak them well.
Soak the beans in plenty of water overnight. The next day you can boil the soybeans with fresh water. Then cover and let the pot simmer on the stove at low heat. After about an hour, the beans should be soft and ready to eat.
Feed fresh soybeans
If you have fresh soybeans, they can be stored in the refrigerator for about two to three days. You can cook them like regular fava beans. Simmer the pods in hot water as described above until soft.
The cores can then be easily removed from the sleeves. You can now eat or process the beans.
If you want to remove the beans from the pods before cooking, it is best to do so immediately before cooking. The individual, fresh soybean kernels without their shell spoil very quickly.
Is soy bad for dogs?
Please do not feed uncooked or raw soybeans. These contain phasing and phytic acid. Consuming large amounts in your dog can lead to stomach problems, vomiting, or bloody stools. In more serious cases, he can even die from it.
Dried soybeans are also not suitable as a meal for your four-legged friend. He can’t digest you. Therefore, your dog excretes them undigested. So you have no use for his dog’s body.
Organic soybeans as an alternative
It is particularly important, especially with the much-criticized soy products, that you pay attention to the origin of the products. Organically grown soy is less contaminated with chemicals. These include weeds and pesticides or artificial fertilizers. In addition, genetically modified ingredients are not permitted in organic farming.
It is best to opt for soy from European or even German, organic cultivation. This eliminates long transport routes. And you’re helping the environment too. You should pay attention to the appropriate seals and markings.
Frequently Asked Question
Can dogs get soy?
The animals can usually eat both soy in its pure form – i.e. the cooked bean (but not the raw bean, please) itself – and products made from it without hesitation. Only dogs that are allergic to soy should be fed a soy-free diet. All other dogs can eat it without hesitation.
Can dogs eat soy yogurt?
Yes, dogs can eat soy yogurt. Many dogs like the taste of soy yogurt. However, some dogs are allergic to soy yogurt, so keep an eye on your dog when giving it to them.
Is oat milk suitable for dogs?
Oat milk is rich in minerals such as calcium, fiber, and protein and naturally does not contain lactose. However, the fact that oat milk is healthier and better tolerated by your dog than cow’s milk should not lead you to replace your dog’s water with oat milk.
Are apples good for dogs?
Apples are among the healthiest fruits and have a positive effect on the well-being of both humans and dogs. The pectins contained in apples, which are roughage, bind water in the intestine, swell up and help against diarrhea in dogs.
How often can a dog eat apples?
Depending on the size and weight of your dog, up to one grated apple with or without the peel can be added to the food or as a snack. Because the apple with its ingredients acts like a small sponge and binds toxins from the stomach and intestines.
Can a dog eat peppers?
In small quantities, well-ripened (i.e. red) and cooked, paprika is well tolerated and can enrich your four-legged friend’s diet. Otherwise, you can simply use carrots, cucumber, boiled(!) potatoes, and many other types of vegetables.
Is cheese healthy for dogs?
Low-fat, low-lactose, and lactose-free cheeses can be fed to dogs as treats. Hard cheese and semi-hard cheese are particularly easy to digest and suitable due to their easy portioning.
Is ground beef good for dogs?
In itself, minced meat is not a problem for your dog. You can feed your dog both cooked and raw ground beef. You must be aware of one thing, however. Minced meat should always come from beef and never from pork.
Mary Allen