Power of Protein: Iowa Agriculture Groups Unite to Strengthen Local Impact Against Food Insecurity

(Photo: Iowa Soybean Association / Bethany Baratta)

Ankeny, Iowa - The Iowa Soybean Association (ISA) this week joined fellow Iowa agricultural commodity organizations in a day of service at the Food Bank of Iowa, reinforcing agriculture's commitment to strengthening communities across the state.

Volunteers from Iowa's ag community worked side by side to sort, package and distribute food for individuals and families facing food insecurity on April 7 at the Food Bank of Iowa in Des Moines. The effort, which included several state commodity organizations including ISA, Iowa Pork Producers Association, Iowa Beef Industry Council, Iowa Cattlemen's Association, Iowa Egg Council, North Central Poultry Association and Midwest Dairy, represents a shared mission among commodity groups to create meaningful local impact while highlighting the essential role farmers play in feeding Iowans and people around the world.

"Iowa farmers take pride not only in what we grow, but in how we give back," said ISA President Tom Adam of Harper. "This collaboration demonstrates the power of agriculture to make a difference, providing high-quality and reliable protein right here at home and across the country."

Through their volunteer efforts, participants helped ensure greater access to reliable, high-quality protein and other nutritious foods. Iowa farmers are global leaders in producing soybeans and other commodities that contribute to food systems locally and internationally, supporting both food security and economic vitality. Additionally, Iowa's ag commodity groups celebrated the power of protein by contributing 1,000 pounds of ground pork, beef certificates and more. ADM contributed several hundred pounds of textured vegetable protein (TVP), which coincided with National Soyfoods Month - all to help combat food insecurity in local communities.

"As we celebrate National Soyfoods Month, it's a great time to recognize soy as a powerhouse in the kitchen and for our health," says Lydia Zerby, consumer insights and engagement manager at the Iowa Soybean Association. "Soy delivers high-quality, complete plant protein with all nine essential amino acids, and it's the only plant protein backed by an FDA-authorized heart health claim. From supporting weight management with satisfying, nutrient-dense options to offering potential long-term health benefits when included early in life, soy foods are a smart, versatile choice for families looking to eat well every day."

Last year, the Iowa Food Bank Association-working through Iowa's six food banks and their partner agencies-distributed more than 54 million meals across the state. Yet the need remains significant, with one in six Iowa children and one in eight Iowans facing food insecurity.

"As food banks work to meet the needs of neighbors, access to nutritious options is more important than ever," said Katie Sorrell, executive director of the Iowa Food Bank Association. "Protein-rich foods, including soy, play an important role in providing energy and nutrition, and we are deeply grateful for this generous support."

The collaboration also reflects the broader commitment of Iowa's agricultural organizations to service, stewardship and community engagement. By partnering with the Food Bank of Iowa, volunteers helped bridge the gap between farm production and the families who depend on it most.

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Not funded by the soybean checkoff.