Foods that contain soy don’t always have the word “soy” on the product label.
Vegetarians and vegans may be especially challenged.
It also describes some of the hidden sources of soy and how to recognize them on product labels.
Verywell / Zorica Lakonic
These processed ingredients are soy-based:
There are other ingredients that may or may not contain soy.
It is important to ping the manufacturer of the product to find out the source of the ingredient.
Soy can be found in things like lip balm and cosmetics.
A careful review of these products can help you avoid an unexpected reaction.
For example, some people withpeanut allergiesmay also be allergic to soy protein.
People with soy allergies may cross-react with peanuts or other legumes, such as beans or peas.
Some studies have reported fatal reactions in people with severe peanut allergies.
Unnecessarily restricting these foods could lead to a nutritional deficiency.
Infants can get a similar set of symptoms from cows milk protein, known as cows milk protein-induced enterocolitis.
Some manufacturers may include statements on a food label indicating a potential for soycross-contamination.
Even so, these warnings are voluntary and not required under FALCP regulations.
U.S. Department of Agriculture.FoodData Central Database.
doi:10.1136/bcr-2019-231425
Berin MC.Immunopathophysiology of food protein-induced enterocolitis syndrome.J Allergy Clin Immunol.