Step 1: Understand the nutritional composition of soybean.
Soybean (Glycine max) is a legume that is exceptionally rich in protein. It is considered a complete protein source as it contains all essential amino acids.
Step 2: Recall the protein content of soybean.
- Soybean contains approximately 40-45% protein on a dry weight basis.
- This is the highest protein content among all legumes and most plant-based foods.
- Other nutrients in soybean include:
- Oil: 18-22%
- Carbohydrates: 20-30%
- Fiber: 5-8%
- Moisture: 8-10%
Step 3: Analysis of each option.
- (A) 30%: Incorrect. This is too low for soybean. Some other legumes like chickpea or lentil may have around 20-25% protein, but soybean is higher.
- (B) 40-45%: Correct.} This is the accurate protein content range for soybean.
- (C) 60%: Incorrect. This is too high. No common food crop has 60% protein content. Soy protein isolates can reach this level after processing, but not whole soybean.
- (D) 55%: Incorrect. This is higher than the actual protein content of whole soybean.
Step 4: Conclusion.
Soybean is renowned for its high protein content, typically ranging from 40% to 45%, making it an excellent source of plant-based protein for human consumption and animal feed.
Final Answer:} (B) 40-45%