Ohio's Soybean Crush Expansion

By Andi Anderson

The soybean industry in Ohio is experiencing a significant expansion in crush capacity due to increased demand for soybean oil in both food and biofuel applications. This expansion is driven by the growing demand for soy products, including soybean oil, across food, feed, and renewable fuel markets. Several key developments have contributed to this expansion:

• Cargill's Expansion in Sidney, Ohio: Cargill completed a $225 million expansion and modernization project at its integrated soybean crush and refined oils facility in Sidney. This project nearly doubled the previous crush capacity at the facility, offering greater market opportunities for local farmers and feed customers. The expansion aims to meet the growing demand for soy products and create more efficient operations for customers.
• Louis Dreyfus Company's (LDC) New Facility in Upper Sandusky: LDC is planning a new soybean processing plant in Upper Sandusky, Ohio, with an annual crush capacity of 1.5 million metric tons, equivalent to over 55 million bushels. This facility is expected to have a significant impact on Ohio's soybean industry, representing around 20% of Ohio's 2022 soybean production. The project is seen as a long-term investment in Ohio's soybean industry, benefiting farmers and the animal agriculture sector.
• Job Creation: The new LDC soybean processing plant is expected to bring more than 100 new jobs to Ohio, contributing to economic growth and employment opportunities. Ohio's leadership, including Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted, has played a role in facilitating this expansion and job creation.
• Investment: LDC plans to invest approximately $500 million in constructing the new plant in Wyandot County, underscoring the company's commitment to Ohio and the soybean industry.
• Economic Impact: Ohio is a major soybean producer, with approximately 26,000 soybean farmers in the state. The annual economic impact of soybean production in Ohio is estimated to be $5.3 billion.
• Integrated Processing Facility: LDC's new soybean processing plant will feature integrated crushing, edible oil refining, and lecithin production and packaging capabilities, enhancing its value-added processing capabilities.

This expansion of soybean crush capacity in Ohio is seen as a positive development for the state's agriculture sector and the broader economy. It not only meets the growing demand for soy products but also creates jobs and opportunities for growth and innovation in Ohio's agricultural industry. The state and JobsOhio are considering assistance for the project to support its successful implementation.

Photo Credit: istock-ds70