Soybeans are legumes that originated in East Asia, but are now being produced on a large scale in the United States.
Soy is used to make many different foods. Soybeans can be eaten whole, with the immature types being called edamame. Soybeans must be cooked, as they are poisonous when raw.
Soy is used in tofu, soy milk and various dairy and meat substitutes. It is also used in fermented foods like miso, natto and tempeh, which are commonly consumed in some Asian countries.
Soy protein is also the major ingredient in soy-based infant formulas.