<p>Once upon a time, soy was praised as one of the world’s healthiest, most nutrient-packed superfoods. Soy-rich foods and products like edamame, tofu, soy milk, and tempeh emerged as a total win for vegetarians, vegans, and low-cholesterol eaters alike. But over the years, questions have emerged as to whether or not soy is good for our bodies, prompting many consumers to avoid soy-based products entirely. Whether you’re hoping to omit soy from your diet, dealing with an allergy, or just looking for <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/c/plant-based-protein" target="_blank">plant-based protein alternatives</a>, here’s what you need to know about shopping soy-free. </p>
<h2>What Is Soy?</h2>

<p>Soy is a protein derived from the soybean, a legume that is native to Asia. While sometimes consumed whole in the form of edamame (prepared immature soybeans in pods), soy is widely used as a plant-based protein and a primary ingredient in <a href="https://thrivemarket.com/c/milk-alternatives" target="_blank">milk alternatives</a> aka soy milk and tofu (a curd made from soy milk). It’s also fermented into tempeh, soy sauce, and miso, a traditional Japanese seasoning. </p>

<h2>Benefits of Avoiding Soy</h2>

<p>The benefits of consuming soy are hard to argue—it’s rich in many vitamins and minerals as well as fiber. Yet some experts have questioned if it may be doing more harm than good. That’s because soy contains isoflavones, compounds that act like estrogen in the body. Because of the presence of isoflavones, there’s some concern that soy may adversely affect the breast, thyroid, or uterus in postmenopausal women. However, research examining soy’s potential link to harmful effects has been limited <a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5188409/"target="_blank">to animal studies</a>. In the meantime, many people are opting to buy soy-free products until the science is more conclusive one way or the other. </p>

<h2>Tips for Eating Soy-Free</h2>

<p>Whether you have an allergy or concerned about soy as a potentially harmful ingredient, shopping soy-free is easy with a few handy tips.</p>
<br>
<ul>
<li><b>Read labels carefully.</b> Hydrolyzed soy protein (HSP), monoglycerides and diglycerides, MSG (or monosodium glutamate), and textured vegetable protein (TVP) all contain soy. </li>
<li><b>Know where hidden soy lurks.</b> Asian foods, candy, cereal, baked goods, nutritional supplements, broths, and imitation dairy products all may include soy unless otherwise noted or labeled “soy-free.”</li>
<li><b>Remember that it goes beyond what you eat.</b> Soy can also be found in cosmetics including lip glosses and balms, as well as some pet foods. So be sure to look closely at labels for everything you purchase.</li>
</ul>

<h2>Top Soy-Free Brands</h2>

<p>Stock up on these soy-free favorites. </p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/primal-kitchen"target="_blank">Primal Kitchen</a></h2>
<p>This Paleo-friendly brand was created by Mark Sisson, one of the founders of the Paleo movement, and is known for marinades, condiments, dressings, and protein powders that are free of preservatives, added sugar, and soy.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/primal-kitchen-avocado-oil-mayo-chipotle-lime"target="_blank">Chipotle Lime Mayo With Avocado Oil</a></h3>
<p>Spread on creamy goodness without preservatives, soy, or added sugar. This avocado-based may has a kick of zesty lime juice and chipotle to spice up sandwiches, salads, or dips. </p>

<h2><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/brand/simple-mills"target="_blank">Simple Mills</a></h2>

<p>Dairy-free baking mixes and pantry must-haves (like pancake mixes, crackers, and frostings) are this Chicago-based company’s specialty. But everything Simple Mills makes is also free of soy, gluten, and GMOs. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/p/simple-mills-fine-ground-sea-salt-almond-flour-crackers"target="_blank">Sea Salt Almond Flour Crackers</a></h3>

<p>Addictively crunchy, these nutrient-rich crackers are made from a blend of almond flour, sunflower seeds, and flaxseeds and deliver 3 grams of protein per serving. </p>
<h2>You Might Like</h2>

<p>Want more on plant-based proteins and dairy alternatives? Dig into the Thrive Market blog! </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/vegan-versus-vegetarian"target="_blank">Vegan vs. Vegetarian</a></h3>

<p>Think veganism and vegetarianism are basically the same thing? Think again. We walk you through all the ways these two diets, which both eliminate meat products, differ.</p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/vegetarian-recipes"target="_blank">50 Vegetarian Recipes</a></h3>

<p>Enjoying a vegetarian diet doesn’t have to mean nothing but basic salads and plain vegetables day in and day out. Celebrate the beauty of eating meat-free with 50 of our favorite vegetarian recipes, from apps to crave-worthy main courses and everything in between. </p>

<h3><a href="https://thrivemarket.com/blog/cooking-with-almond-milk"target="_blank">Cooking With Almond Milk</a></h3>

<p>Not a fan of cow’s milk or soy? Almond milk is a flavorful and versatile dairy-free alternative. Find out why this nut milk is gaining popularity and check out some of our favorite almond milk–infused recipes. </p>

Check out Thrive Market's assortment of soy free items. Choose from food, health, beauty, and more to find your soy free products.

So long, soy. If you're avoiding or limiting this ingredient in your diet (including edamame, tofu, soy milk, and tempeh) shop our shelves for the best alternatives. 

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