[National Geographical Indication Products] Xintian Soybeans

Xintian Soybean was approved by the General Administration of Quality Supervision, Inspection and Quarantine (AQSIQ) as National Geographical Indication Product in January 2016.

There are more than 60,000 mu (4,020 hectares) of soybean planting fields across Xintian County, making an annual output of more than 10,000 tons, valuing nearly 100 million yuan.

Soybean planting in Xintian County can be traced back to more than 2000 years ago. Archaeological findings in 48 relics discovered in Longquanshan area proved that ancestors began to plant soybeans for food and fodder during the Shang and Zhou Dynasties (1600 BC – 256 BC).

Plenty of rain and sunshine caused by the subtropical continental monsoon moist climate and large temperature difference in days and nights make soybean grow and accumulate nutrient. The soil, being rich in potassium, calcium, and selenium, brings high content of such elements in the soybeans produced here. In 2012, a survey made by the Hunan Institute of Geophysical and Geochemical Exploration showed that, the soil in Xintian County contains a high selenium content of 5.52 mg/kg, much higher than the provincial average of 0.28 mg/kg.

Xintian soybean is big in size, gold in color, and has a good taste. The tofu made of Xintian soybeans is a local specialty, and a major dish served for Spring Festival feast. It is also processed into bean curd jelly, soya-bean milk, soya flour, dried tofu, soy milk, and natto, which enjoy high reputation around the province.

Chinese source: Voice of Hunan