Foods Containing Soy Protein Isolate

Soy protein isolate is a concentrated source of plant protein used as an ingredient in a wide variety of foods. Foods containing soy protein isolate are good sources of high-quality protein for people who choose not to consume animal protein or to supplement the amount of protein they normally get in their diets. In addition to supplying protein in the diet, soy protein isolate may provide other health benefits.

Soy Protein Isolate

During processing, soybeans are crushed to isolate the protein from the fat. The protein is then further refined to produce soy protein isolate. Since it is separated or isolated from most other components of the soybean, soy protein isolate is almost pure protein, containing almost no fat or carbohydrate. The protein concentrated in soy protein isolate is as nutritious as animal protein because it contains all of the same essential amino acids your body needs to make high-quality protein.

Products

Although you can purchase soy protein isolate powder online and in health foods stores, it is more commonly used by food manufacturers to make products such as high-protein shake mixes and other processed foods such as vegetarian alternatives to meat and dairy products. Specifically, soy protein isolate can be found in baked goods, cereals, power bars, fruit drinks, soup and sauce mixes and weight gain or muscle-building products. Soy protein isolate is on the Food and Drug Administration's list of ingredients that are "Generally Recognized As Safe."

Benefits

Soy protein can help lower blood cholesterol when it is eaten as part of an overall heart-healthy diet that is low in fat and dietary cholesterol. A diet that regularly includes foods containing soy protein isolate may help protect you from heart disease. Soy protein contains phytoestrogens, or plant estrogens, that function like natural estrogen in your body. The phytoestrogens in soy protein are called isoflavones. Soy protein isolate that has been processed with water contains isoflavones that may diminish some symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes and vaginal dryness, according to a study published in a 2010 issue of "Mauritus." Soy protein isolate that has been processed with alcohol does not contain isoflavones.

Labeling

The Food and Drug Administration allows any food item that contains at least 6.25 g of soy protein and is also low in total fat, saturated fat and cholesterol to carry a label claim stating that "25 grams of soy protein a day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease." For reference, 1 oz. of soy protein isolate powder supplies 23 g of protein, just 1 g of fat and 0 g of saturated fat and cholesterol.