KATHMANDU: High-level officials from the US Soybean Export Council (USSEC) have emphasized the importance of sustainable practices in promoting global protein consumption. The officials also praised Nepal for establishing its 'Right to Protein Run' as a signature national event.
Kevin Roepke, USSEC's Regional Director for the MENASA region, stated that the organization's heart and soul are its U.S. soybean farmers, who have over 100 members worldwide.
"Internationally, we focus on two primary objectives: ensuring U.S. soy has available market access and differentiating it from soy of other origins," Kevin said.
He explained that sustainability is a priority for American soy farmers and a key competitive advantage.
"It's a source of pride and a key differentiator for U.S. soy. We have the lowest carbon footprint and an impeccable deforestation record compared to other origins," he stated.
As a result of these sustainable production practices, USSEC has introduced the "Sustainable U.S. Soy" logo. Kevin clarified that for feed companies to qualify for using this logo, at least 60% of their soy ingredients must be certified under the Soybean Sustainability Assurance Protocol.
Citing U.S. soy's lower carbon footprint and high digestibility, Kevin noted that the market is not solely driven by price.
"That's why Nepal is increasing its utilization of U.S. soy, with imports up 38% this year," he said. "Nepal's poultry industry is showing a strong preference for U.S. soy, whether in the form of whole beans or meal."
Kevin also highlighted a growing demand for protein in Nepal, identifying it as a strong growth market.
"This demand in Nepal and South Asia is primarily met through poultry, yet consumption levels across the region remain low," he said, adding that the 'Right to Protein Run' has become a signature event for the country.
Another official, Kyle Durham of the United Soybean Board, encouraged Nepal to utilize more U.S. soy to promote domestic protein sources. A sixth-generation farmer from Missouri, Kyle stressed that sustainability is key to success.
"Nepal is a wonderful country, and the hospitality was beyond compare," said Kyle, who visited Nepal last year for the 'Chikenomics' event. "The U.S. soy used here comes with all the essential amino acids, making it a very high-quality protein." Kyle also expressed his admiration for Nepal's burgeoning poultry industry.
"Poultry farming is gaining popularity in Nepal and is booming day by day," he said, noting significant opportunities for Nepali and U.S. farmers to grow and strengthen together. He also emphasized the critical role of science and data in modern farming. Furthermore, Kyle sees substantial potential for partnership between the U.S., its soybean growers, and the people of Nepal to achieve shared goals.
"As we increase protein in diets worldwide, we see better health outcomes for families, children, and everyone," he said. He commended Nepal's 'Right to Protein Run' as a top-tier initiative for raising protein awareness among the general public.
