Soybeans
A versatile legume prized for its high protein (40%) and oil (20%) content. Primarily used for animal feed (70% of global production), cooking oil, tofu, soy milk, biodiesel, and industrial products (inks, plastics).
**Primary Sources:**
– **Top Producers:** United States (Midwest), Brazil (Cerrado region), Argentina (Pampas), China, India.
– **Growing Regions:** Thrives in temperate and tropical climates; major cultivation in the Americas and Asia.
**Key Fact:**
Brazil is the largest exporter, driven by demand from China for livestock feed.
**Primary Sources:**
– **Exclusive Origin:** Grown exclusively in Egypt’s Nile River Valley, particularly the Nile Delta and regions like Giza (famed for *Giza 45* and *Giza 86* varieties).
– **Climate Advantage:** Thrives in Egypt’s hot, dry climate with nutrient-rich soil and consistent Nile irrigation.
**Key Fact:**
Authentic Egyptian cotton is certified by the *Cotton Egypt Association* (CEA). Counterfeit labeling is common globally, so traceability (e.g., *CCI* tags) ensures legitimacy. Less than 1% of global cotton production is true ELS Egyptian cotton, making it a luxury commodity.
