Soy is a versatile ingredient used in a wide variety of foods, making it challenging to avoid if you have a soy allergy. Here are some common hidden sources of soy:

In Foods:

• Soy Sauce: While it seems obvious, it's worth mentioning that traditional soy sauce is a major source of soy. Look for tamari or other soy-free alternatives.
• Tofu and Tempeh: These are obvious soy products, but it's important to be aware of them.
• Vegetable Oil: Some vegetable oil is soybean oil, but it's generally safe for soy allergies unless the allergy is to highly refined soybean oil (which is rare). Always check with your allergist if you have concerns about soybean oil.
• Lecithin: Soy lecithin is a common emulsifier used in many processed foods, including chocolate, baked goods, and salad dressings.
• Protein Bars and Energy Bars: Many protein and energy bars contain soy protein isolate or soy protein concentrate.
• Meat Substitutes: Vegetarian and vegan meat substitutes are often made from soy.
• Processed Meats: Some processed meats, like sausages and deli meats, may contain soy as a filler.
• Baked Goods: Soy flour is sometimes used in baked goods.
• Snack Foods: Certain snack foods, like chips and crackers, may contain soy.

Hidden Soy Ingredients (Look out for these terms):

• Soy protein isolate
• Soy protein concentrate
• Soy flour
• Soy lecithin
• Monosodium glutamate (MSG) - can be derived from soy
• Textured vegetable protein (TVP) - often made from soy
• Hydrolyzed vegetable protein (HVP) - can be made from soy

Tips for Identifying Soy:

• Scan Food Labels With Mealeez: Highlight the "Soya" category in your profile, and Mealeez will flag ingredients that may contain soya.
• Read Labels Carefully: Always check the ingredient list for soy, soy lecithin, and other soy-related terms.
• Look for "Soy-Free" Labels: Products labeled "soy-free" should not contain any soy ingredients. However, it's still a good idea to double-check the label.
• Contact Manufacturers: If you're unsure about the ingredients in a product, contact the manufacturer for clarification.

Important Note: This list is not exhaustive, and new hidden sources of soy may be discovered. Always read labels carefully and be vigilant.