Ohio's Soybean Crush Capacity Expanding

By Andi Anderson

Ohio's soybean industry is undergoing a significant transformation as soybean oil takes the lead in both food and fuel applications. Crush capacity in the state is set to increase by up to 30% over the next three years to accommodate the surging demand for soybean oil.

Darren Kadlec, a farmer and member of the U.S. Soybean Export Council board, explains the shift, "With the biofuel revolution, we are adding crush capacity. We used to seek value in soybean meal, but now, we desire both the meal and the soybean oil due to increased demand."

Ohio's soybean growers stand to gain from this expansion, particularly in Shelby County and Wyandot County. Cargill recently completed a $225 million upgrade to its soybean crush and refined oils facility in Sidney. This expansion, which nearly doubles the previous crush capacity, enables Cargill to meet the growing demand for soy products across food, feed, and renewable fuel markets. It also enhances the on-site experience for customers, streamlining soybean processing and product loading.

The refined oil produced at this facility caters to various growing demands for soybean oil. As Ohio's population grows, the need for more oil and protein continues to rise, and this expansion allows the state to tap into emerging markets.

Moreover, another major crush facility is in the pipeline for Ohio. Louis Dreyfus Company (LDC) is planning a facility in Upper Sandusky with an annual crush capacity of 1.5 million metric tons, a significant boost to the state's soybean industry. This expansion represents a long-term investment in Ohio's soybean sector, benefiting farmers and the animal agriculture industry.

The new LDC facility will not only bring over 100 new jobs to Ohio but also solidify the state's role in the international soybean market. Soybeans are Ohio's top exported agricultural product, and LDC's investment underscores the state's importance in the soybean industry.

The project will further strengthen Ohio's economy, making it an attractive destination for businesses looking to expand. Ohio's soybean industry is on a path of growth and innovation, thanks to the increasing demand for soybean oil in food and fuel, and the dedication to business expansion within the state.

Photo Credit: istock-urpspoteko