Production of non-GM soybeans for the food industry in the United States remained stable in 2025, maintaining its share in the country’s overall agricultural output. According to the U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC), American farmers planted 2.22 million acres of non-GMO soybeans for food use, with 1.67 million acres grown under contract. Thus, non-GM soybeans for food purposes account for about 2% of total U.S. soybean production — a figure virtually unchanged from 2024.
With soybean prices on the Chicago Board of Trade steady at around $10 per bushel, non-GM production continues to attract farmers seeking higher profitability. The share of contracted acreage for food-grade non-GM soybeans rose from 65% in 2024 to 67% in 2025. Will McNair, USSEC’s Director of Soy Product Development, said these figures help market participants better understand production trends and plan for future growth.
The average on-farm premium for food-grade non-GM soybeans reached $2.53 per bushel in 2025. This figure includes all soybean types — from beans used in tofu and soy milk to natto — and does not reflect specific purchase prices.
Exports remain the key driver of the U.S. non-GM soybean market. The main end uses are tofu (41%), soy milk (21%), natto (14%), miso (9%), and soy sauce (6%).
Japan, South Korea, and Taiwan remain the top importers of U.S. non-GM soybeans. However, demand is also rising across Southeast Asia and in the domestic U.S. market, where consumers are increasingly choosing non-GM food products.
