CADMIUM AND LEAD CONTENT OF SOYBEAN PRODUCTS

Soybeans grown on sludge-amended soil high in cadmium content were analyzed for cadmium and lead, then fractionated to simulate industrial food processing. Of these fractions, oil retained the least cadmium, which accumulated in the protein-enriched fractions. Protein products prepared in the laboratory by simulated industrial processes showed no practical differences in cadmium levels. Commercial soybean products for human consumption obtained from manufacturers and markets showed no elevated cadmium levels. Lead levels were high in isolated instances, presumably from contamination during processing. Cadmium in high-cadmium soybeans is retained by protein products consumed by humans; increased cadmium application to soils may be hazardous to humans. However, soybean products presently being marketed do not contain excessive cadmium or lead.