Soy-based foods have been the subject of recent research because of growing evidence that soy phytoestrogens might change how some hormone-dependent and hormone-independent diseases develop. Studies have indicated that the isoflavones genistin and daidzin may have positive effects on menopausal symptoms, osteoporosis, and coronary heart disease. These findings have led to clinical recommendations for increased dietary intake of soy products containing phytoestrogens.

However, other reports suggest that there may be negative effects from consuming too many phytoestrogens, especially for infants. This increase in phytoestrogen consumption for medical reasons, along with the inconsistent effects of phytoestrogens on the human body, makes it important for consumers and clinicians to know the amount and type of phytoestrogens in soy-based products. Research shows that the level of phytoestrogens in soybeans can vary significantly. Environmental factors like temperature, rainfall, humidity, wind, soil conditions, terrain slope, and irrigation can affect phytoestrogen concentration by as much as 300 percent. Therefore, farming methods may be a critical factor in phytoestrogen content.

A recent study demonstrates notable reductions in phytoestrogen content in genetically modified Roundup Ready soybeans compared to conventional soybeans that are more heavily treated with herbicides. However, no study has yet examined how pesticide-free organic and conventional farming practices affect the phytoestrogen content of genetically identical beans. This study sought to quantify the levels of biologically active phytoestrogens present in conventional versus organic soybeans.