NEW FOOD PRODUCTS FROM THE FNRI:
FUNCTIONAL FOODS FROM SOYBEANS

The Food and Nutrition Research Institute of the Department of Science and Technology (FNRI-DOST)has come out with new products from soybeans. There is at present a growing research interest and consumer awareness of the health benefits of soybeans. Soybeans are powerhouses of phytochemicals that help prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases.

Three prototype products were developed using soybeans, namely, soybean spread with peanut; soybean gel in three flavors-lychee, pineapple, and nata de coco; and freeze-dried tofu. These products will add variety to the present range of soy food products offered to consumers that are beneficial to health and well-being.

The products were developed by Ms.Ma. Elena G. Fernandez, Ms. Joyce R. Tobias, and Ms. Aileen G. Apilado of the Nutritional Products Development Section of FNRI.

The authors found out that consumption of two servings (15 g. per serving) of soybean spread with peanut or 3 servings (3 cups of 100 g each) of soybean gel or 12.5 g of freeze-dried tofu will provide 1/4 of the recommended daily intake of soy protein.

Interested parties who are planning to go into food entrepreneurship on these food items may write a letter of intent to:
Dr. CORAZON VC. BARBA
Director
Food and Nutrition Research Institute, DOST
Gen. Santos Avenue, Bicutan, Taguig, Metro Manila 1631