In Minnesota, we take our beans seriously. Our farmers consistently produce quality soybeans that are high in essential amino acids, the best measure of the true nutritional value of animal feed. Soybeans are Minnesota’s No. 1 agricultural export, more than a $3 billion dollar industry in the state.

What may come as a surprise to some is that soybeans are a major component of Minnesota’s commitment to energy diversity, in the form of biodiesel. Soybean farmers across our state are growing that diversity.

Minnesota produces more than 74 million gallons of biodiesel a year, much of that made from soybean oil. Only the oil portion of the soybean is used to process biodiesel, leaving all of the protein available for livestock and people. This makes it an ideal by-product, since the oil is often discarded.

Minnesota’s biodiesel industry contributes $1.7 billion and supports 5,397 jobs annually. It adds 63 cents to the value of a bushel of soybeans, which adds roughly $242 million to the state’s ag economy each year.

In 2002, Minnesota became the first in the nation to require that all diesel fuel sold in the state contain at least a 2 percent blend (B2) of biodiesel. It was also the first state to require 10 percent biodiesel, or B10, in diesel blends sold during the summer months. (B10 is required from April 1 to Sept. 30, and B5 is required during the remaining winter months.) Beginning in summer 2018, Minnesota will be the first to move to B20, a 20 percent biodiesel blend.

Why is the move to B20 so important? 1) Cleaner air for all Minnesotans. According to the American Lung Association in Minnesota, using B20 in the summer and B5 in the winter in Minnesota has an effect equal to removing the emissions from nearly 202,000 vehicles from the roads each year; 2) Less dependence on imported petroleum; and 3) jobs and economic benefits right here in Minnesota.

As farmers, it goes without saying that our bond with our land and our crops is based on pride and respect. We’ve seen the growth of the biodiesel industry in our state over the past 15 years, and we couldn’t be more proud. Biodiesel offers the promise of a better future for all Minnesotans.

Learn more about the benefits of biodiesel in Minnesota from the Minnestoa Soybean Research & Promotion Council website.