FDA Questions Soy Protein Benefits

The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is calling the heart heath benefits of soy protein into question.

In a recent statement from Dr. Susan Mayne, director of the FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, the agency proposed a new rule that would prevent soy products from displaying a heart health claim on their packaging and in advertising. The FDA previously allowed such claims on soy products because past studies found links between soy intake and improved heart health.

However, since that claim was approved in 1999, multiple studies have produced "inconsistent findings on the relationship between soy protein and heart disease," according to the FDA.

The agency said its proposed rule is part of its ongoing efforts to make sure consumers are presented with accurate dietary information. If the FDA approves the rule it is currently proposing, soy product producers would need to explain that evidence supporting heart health claims for soy is limited or conflicting if they are to place such claims on their products.

The health agency did not appear to suggest that soy could actually harm heart health. Instead, it cited studies that questioned the ability of soy to improve heart health. The FDA statement also noted that consumers should follow established dietary guidelines, which state that soy can be part of a healthy overall diet.

If you are concerned about your soy intake or any other aspect of your diet, speak with your health care provider.