Soya chunks in bulk

Types of soya chunks in bulk

Soya chunks in bulk come in a number of types which include the following:

• Textured soya protein

  Soya chunks are also known as textured soya protein or TVP, which are made by processing defatted soya flour, extracting moisture from the soya flour, and frying to create a meat-like feel. It is a versatile product that can be used in many dishes and absorbs flavours well.

• Dried soya chunks

  These are the most common type of soya chunks in bulk, which are textured soya protein products, which have been hydrated and then dried for long-lasting storage. Users need to soak these chunks to prepare them and they expand and become softer in latter cooking processes before consumption.

• Soya granules

  Similar to soya chunks, soya is also textured soya protein, but in smaller pieces. Soya granules are often used in recipes that require smaller bits like sauces and stews.

• Instant soya chunks

  Instant soya chunks are pre-cooked and dried soya protein; hence, they require very minimal preparation. Consumers need to add hot water or broth to these chunks so they can be ready to use in food preparation quickly.

• Autoclaved soya chunks

  These types of soya chunks have been prepared by autoclaving and drying soya flour before it has been subjected to any heating process. This method gives them a longer shelf life and improves their nutritional value by removing anti-nutritional factors.

How to use soya chunks in bulk

So buyer chunks in bulk can be used in a number of ways. They include:

• As a meat substitute

  Soya chunks can be used in place of meat in almost all meals. In fact, they have similar texture to that of meat hence making them ideal to use in people’s who do not consume meat and vegetarians’ products. Soya chunks are usually soaked in spices to give it a meat like flavour before they are mixed with sauces, vegetables, curries or the individual Soya chunks alone as the main meal.

• As addition to soups and stews

  Soya chunks can be added to bulk soups and stews. This not only improves the meal’s nutritional content by increasing the protein value, but it also makes the meal heartier and more filling. Soya chunks are normally added after the soup or stew has been prepared and left to simmer so that the chunks can soften and blend with other ingredients.

• Soya chunk curries

  In many Indian cuisines, soya chunks are popularised by soya chunk curries. Once the soya chunks have been rehydrated, they are added to curry sauces and spices that help them absorb the flavour. They make for a delicious and satisfying meal, often eaten with rice or bread.

• Soya chunk salads

  Once soaked and cooked, soya chunks can be cooled and added into salads to increase protein content. They give a nice chewy texture to the salad and can be combined with a variety of vegetables, dressings and grains.

• Soya chunk snacks

  They can also be seasoned and baked or fried to make savoury snacks. Soya snacks are a good alternative to roasted nuts or chips because they have a crunchy consistency with a high protein content.

Benefits of soya chunks in bulk

Soya chunks in bulk come with numerous benefits. They include:

• High protein content

  They are outstandingly high protein content hence making them an ideal source of protein for all. They are nearly 100% protein helping them to build and repair body tissues and muscles. This makes them ideal for body builders, athletes and all other people who are looking for muscle gain.

• Low in fat

  Soya chunks are typically low in fat especially saturated fat, which is good for heart health. It helps in reducing cholesterol levels and minimising the risk of heart diseases.

• High in fibre

  Soya chunks are also high in dietary fibre; hence, they promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements. This also helps in preventing constipation and supports a healthy gut microbiome.

• No cholesterol

  As they come from plant-based sources, soya chunks lack cholesterol and this helps to cut off cholesterol consumption, lower blood cholesterol and subsequently lower the risk of heart disease.

• Rich in vitamins and minerals

  They are also rich in minerals like iron, calcium, potassium and magnesium as well as vitamins like vitamin B and D. Iron helps to prevent anaemia by increasing red blood cell counts, calcium helps to strengthen bones and teeth, potassium helps to maintain healthy blood pressure and magnesium helps to support nerve function and muscle relaxation.

• Contains antioxidants and phytoestrogens

  Soya chunks’ antioxidant properties help to neutralise free radicals and possibly reduce the risk of chronic diseases with age. Phytoestrogens support hormonal balance, specifically in women who are going through menopause. As such, they may help to alleviate menopausal symptoms like hot flashes.

How to store soya chunks in bulk

Storing soya chunks in bulk requires the following steps to be stored properly:

• Keep dry

  Moisture is the biggest enemy of soya chunks especially because when they are dry, they have been made to last and dry in them eliminates any kind of bacteria, yeast or mould that could be present in the product. In case they absorb moisture and get wet, they will spoil and go rancid. It is important to ensure that the soya chunks are kept dry at all times. Therefore, store them in dry conditions away from wet areas like kitchens, bathrooms or places with high humidity.

• Store in airtight containers

  Airtight containers keep soya chunks dry and protect them from contaminants and prevent them from absorbing moisture. If storage in airtight containers is not possible, plastic wraps or zip pouches can be used to wrap the bulk soya chunks.

• Store in a cool and dark place

  Heat and light increase the chemical processes that may lead to spoilage. Store the soya chunks in a cool place with a constant temperature that is below room temperature. It is also advisable to store them in the dark because light can degrade the product as well as the nutrients that are in it. Consider using a basement, pantry or cupboard for storage where conditions are ideal for storage.

• Use food-grade containers for storage

  Soya chunks are normally stored in food-grade containers like glass jars, plastic containers, or metal tins. These types of storage materials ensure food safety and avoid any transfer of chemicals or toxins to the soya products. When buying bulk soya chunks, have a plan on what kind of food-safe storage containers will be used to store the soya products.

• Monitor for freshness

  Although soya chunks have a longer shelf life, they should still be monitored for signs of spoilage. Check for any changes in colour, smell or texture. Soya chunks usually have a neutral smell and when they start smelling rancid or oily, it is a sign that they have gone bad. Also check for signs of pests like insects or rodents that may have contaminated the product. Occasionally, inspect the batch and check for signs of spoilage or monitor the soya product's condition.

• Rotate the stock

  Buy bulk soya chunks in products means having another stock of the same product. In this case, rotate stock and ensure the older items are used first before the newer ones. This practice helps to ensure the product is constantly fresh and there is no wastage.

Q&A

Q1: How long do soya chunks last when stored properly in bulk?

A1: Soya chunks have a long shelf life when stored properly in a cool, dry, and airtight exposure to light and moisture. Since they are dry, they can last anywhere between 2 to 3 years.

Q2: Are Soya chunks suitable for storage in a refrigerator or freezer?

A2: There is no need to store soya chunks in the refrigerator or freezer since they will get spoiled because they will be exposed to moisture or they will spoil due to condensation. When storage soya chunks in a fridge or freezer, they should be kept in airtight containers to prevent condensation from affecting the product.

Q3: Can seasoned or flavoured soya chunks be stored in bulk?

A3: It is not advisable to store seasoned or flavoured soya chunks in bulk since seasoning can introduce moisture and shorten the product's storage life. Only season soya chunks when they are being prepared for storage.

Q4: How to know if soya chunks have gone bad?

A4: Soya chunks have a slight nutty smell and when they go bad they smell rancid and this is a clear indicator that the product is spoiled. Also, they start losing when they are dry and start feeling moist and soft and this indicates they are bad.

Q5: Can soya chunks be stored in bulk in larger quantities?

A5: Since they have a longer shelf life, soya chunks can be purchased in bulk from online stores and they are ideal for everyone who uses them on a large scale.