FAQs

Here are answers to the questions we're asked most often. If you don't find an answer to yours--let us hear from you.

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Is soy good for you?
There is a body of research that indicates soy food, including soy isoflavones are an essential part of a healthy diet. Rich in protein and low in fat (usually zero cholesterol), most soy products are good for your heart. To find out how a diet which includes soy can help you, talk to your physician!

What are the benefits of soy?

For centuries, soy has been a part of eastern culture and is thought to help play an important role in the prevention of certain illnesses such as cardiovascular disease, cancers, osteoporosis and diabetes. Soybeans and soyfoods are the only natural dietary sources that provide nutritionally relevant amounts of isoflavones and are packed full of nutrients.

What is in soy that makes it good for you?
Soy is the only complete vegetable protein, containing all nine amino acids the human body needs. Unlike animal protein, soy contains no cholesterol and is low in saturated fat, while providing important Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. Soy is also a great source of fiber and is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. There is great scientific interest in the study of soy products and soy proteins that are helping to confirm the disease prevention potential of the tiny bean.

Is soy good for your heart?

The FDA recently approved health claims related to soy: include 25 grams of soy protein each day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, may reduce the risk of heart disease. Soy foods are low in saturated fat, are cholesterol-free, and contain high-quality protein, essential fatty acids, dietary fiber, and numerous other nutrients. As part of a healthy diet, soy foods can replace less healthy foods that are high in saturated fat and cholesterol, thus enhancing their impact on cholesterol lowering.

Does soy reduce menopause symptoms?
More than 1/3 of the women in the US, about 36 million, have been through menopause. With a life expectancy of about 81 years, a 50-year-old woman can expect to live more than one third of her life after menopause. Scientific research is just beginning to address some of the unanswered questions about these years - about the poorly understood biology of menopause and how diet, especially soy, can aid in reducing some of the symptoms. Many physiological changes during menopause are related to decreased estrogen production. These include difficulty in regulating body temperature, which can result in "night sweats" and "hot flashes." However, experiences vary from culture to culture around the world. In general, Japanese women are much less likely to experience symptoms of menopause at all. Studies indicate that consuming natural isoflavones, which are found in soy food products, may reduce the frequency and intensity of hot flashes in menopausal women. Isoflavones have been shown to function similarly to estrogen-replacement therapy, which is used by many women to ease menopause symptoms. Research us currently being conducted around the globe to determine the significance in reducing menopausal symptoms.

What products contain soy?
Unfermented soy products like Tofu, Soymilk, Soy Nuts and edamame are great sources of soy proteins and isoflavones. There are also fermented soy foods like tempe and miso. In recent years, ISP (isolated soy protein,a supplement) has been added to a number of food products to increase the % of protein per serving.

How much soy should I eat every day?
Following FDA guidelines of 25 grams of soy protein each day, as part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, to help reduce the risk of heart disease.

Can soy prevent osteoporosis?
The risk of osteoporosis in women rises as estrogen levels decrease, both during peri-menopause and following menopause. Without estrogen's protective effects, the rate of bone loss is increased; it is highest during the first five to seven years after menopause.
Recent studies have found that soy isoflavones, like those found in food products made from whole soybeans, could help in the prevention of bone density loss and give credence for additional studies. At this point, there is not conclusive evidence, but a diet containing only 35mg of soy protein every day may help to prevent bone loss.

How much fat is in soy?
Typically, soy foods used as dairy or meat alternatives, contain 20%-25% less fat and calories than their reduced fat counterparts. For example: 2% reduced fat dairy milk contains 130 calories, 5 grams of fat, 30mg cholesterol and 12g carbohydrates (per serving), whereas Vitasoy Organic Creamy Original contains 110 Calories, 4 grams of fat, 0 cholesterol and 11g of carbohydrates. When you compare to whole milk which contains 150 calories, 8 grams of fat, 35mg of cholesterol and 12g of carbohydrates. And with the rich and creamy taste, you'll never miss the calories and fat!

Where can I get soy products?
Vitasoy USA manufacturers a completed line of soy-based products sold under the Vitasoy, Nasoya and Azumaya brand names. Our products are distributed across the US and Canada in major grocery chains and natural food markets. Our soymilk is sold non-refrigerated, called aseptic, and is on the shelves Healthy Food Aisles everywhere. Our tofu, noodles, sauces and dressings are sold in the refrigerated produce section. We even have a line of shelf-stable sandwich spreads and dressings that are found in the salad sections.

Are soy products gluten-free?
Non-cereals, including legumes such as soybeans and seeds such as sunflower seeds contain no gluten. No gluten is contained in rice, wild rice, maize (corn) millets, buckwheat, quinoa, sorghum or amaranth. Oats and teff do not contain gluten, but are sometimes grown directly adjacent to, and/or milled on the same equipment as other grains that do contain gluten, and so are commonly contaminated. However, some products that contain soy sauce are known to contain gluten. It's best to check the label if you have a gluten allergy (celiac disease). Some Vitasoy soymilks are gluten-free, specifically, Peppermint Chocolate, Holly Nog and our ethnic line under the San Sui brand. We add barley flour to our other soymilks which contains gluten.

Are all soy products lactose free?
It's hard to say that all soy products are lactose-free. Fundamentally, soy based products (made from soybeans) are lactose-free. However, if any dairy is added, there will be lactose. All Vitasoy soymilks, as well as, Nasoya tofu, dressings and sauces are lactose-free.

What is msg?
MSG is a food additive, popularly marketed as a "flavor enhancer". There have been numerous studies of allergies and/or sensitivities to MSG, attributed to the free glutamic acid component, which has been blamed for causing a wide variety of physical symptoms such as migranes, nausea, digestive upsets, bad dreams, disturbed sleep, drowsiness, heart palpitations, hair loss, asthma, anaphylactic shock, rapidly increasing diabetes, and many other complaints. All Vitasoy, Nasoya and Azumaya products are free of msg.

What does non-genetically modified mean?
Genetic engineering, genetic modification (GM) and gene splicing are terms for the process of manipulating genes. It involves the isolation, manipulation and reintroduction of DNA intocells or model organisms, usually to express a protein. The aim is to introduce new characteristics or attributes physiologically or physically, such as making a crop resistant to a pesticide, introducing a novel trait, or producing a new protein or enzyme. All Vitasoy, Nasoya and Azumaya products are made from non-genetically engineered ingredients – meaning, only naturally ocurring, wholesome foods!

Are all Vitasoy USA products Organic?
No. While the majority of our products are organic, there are some products, like our Lite varieties of Vitasoy soymilk and Nasoya Tofu, that do not achieve the USDA certification of Organic. All of our products are all-natural and made from non-genetically modified ingredients.

What does it mean to be All-Natural?
At Vitasoy USA, our mission is to providing fresh, all-natural and great-tasting foods for you and your family to enjoy! By All-Natural, we do not use or support products that are treated with pesticides, we do not utilize products that are genetically engineered and we use only ingredients that are found in nature (nothing synthetic).

What is the difference between Organic and All-Natural?
Foods that qualify to be certified Organic by the USDA contain certain levels of key ingredients.

How are Organic products certified?
The USDA has very strict guidelines for products to meet in order to be certified as Organic. There are a number of compliance agencies that work with food manufacturers to ensure that products that claim to be Organic really meet the standards. It starts at the farm and works it way through the processing plant. The entire process is scutinized to ensure correct labeling.

What should I do if my product is past the "Best Used" date?
Manufacturers provide a Best Used by date for your satisfaction and safety. There is a lot that can happen to a food product between the manufacturer and the grocery store and between the grocery store to your home. It's best to use the product before the Best Used By date or discard if the date has passed.

Where can I find nutritional information for Vitasoy USA products?
The nutritional information for each of our products is listed on our website. Link to the brand you're interested in, and then click on the Nutritional Facts link. If you still have questions, contact our consumer relations department at 1-800-VITASOY.

Specific Questions Regrading Vitasoy Soymilk:

Is soymilk healthier than dairy milk?
2% reduced fat dairy milk contains 130 calories, 5 grams of fat, 30mg cholesterol and 12g carbohydrates (per serving) whereas Vitasoy Organic Creamy Original contains 110 Calories, 4 grams of fat, 0 cholesterol and 11g of carbohydrates. When you compare to whole milk which contains 150 calories, 8 grams of fat, 35mg of cholesterol and 12g of carbohydrates. And with the rich and creamy taste, you'll never miss the calories and fat!

Does soymilk need to be refrigerated before it is opened?
This depends on your preference. Most people think soymilk tastes better (it's certainly more refreshing) when it is refrigerated. The benefit of our product is that you don't need to refrigerate it until you are ready to use it, and it's good for up to 1 year (Best Used By Date) before it is opened! That means you can always have some on-hand, in the pantry until you need it!

Should I refrigerate my soymilk after its been opened?
Yes. Soymilk does need to be refrigerated once it is opened.

How long is soymilk good after it is opened?
Soymilk should be used within 10 days of opening. Like just most food products, once exposed to air, it begins to breakdown and is exposed to airborne bacteria.

Why is there sedimentation in my soymilk? How do I get rid of it?
When soymilk is fortified with vitamins and calcium and sits unmoved for a period of time sedimentation can form. This is normal. To reduce the sedimentation in your soymilk, hold the cap closed tightly and shake the container vigorously before every use.

Why are there floating particles?
Soymilk that is fortified with vitamins and calcium can sometimes look as though particles are floating in the soymilk. This is normal and can be reduced if the soymilk is shaken before use.

What is the difference between Organic and non-Organic soymilk?
Organic soymilk is made with whole organic soybeans and meets the USDA certification standards. Non-organic soymilk can be made with organic or non-organic soybeans but contains other non-organic ingredients that do not allow it to achieve the percentage of organic ingredients dictated by the USDA. Some natural flavors are made with non-organic ingredients, rendering the soymilk non-organic.

What are the signs of spoiled soymilk?
Curdling and separation are signs that the soymilk has spoiled. It's best to use the product by the Best Used Date to ensure freshness. Sometimes, the package is damaged in transit (to the store or to your home). This may also impact the integrity of the soymilk. If you suspect that they soymilk has gone bad, do not use it. Discard the unused portion.

Everyone has questions about Tofu:

What does tofu taste like?
Like everything else, it tastes like chicken. OK, that's an analogy. Tofu tastes like whatever you put on it or put it in. It really has no flavor at all, which makes it a great meat or egg substitute (without all the fat, calories and cholesterol!). You can use tofu in a stir-fry, in a smoothie, or mix it in with some egg whites for a delicious egg scramble!

How do you prepare Tofu?
There are many different ways to prepare Tofu. You can bake it, stir-fry, grill, mix-in, slow-cook it; the ways to prepare it are endless. Take any recipe you have (chicken, beef, pork, fish) and swap Tofu: we make no bones about it! You'll hardly tell the difference.

How should I store Tofu?
Our Nasoya and Azumaya Tofu is water packed. This means, it must remain in water so that it doesn't dry out before it is used. In its original package, just keep refrigerated until you're ready to use it. Once opened, you need to use it all or store the remaining tofu in water. Sometimes you can use the original container, fill with water, replace unused tofu and cover with plastic wrap.

How can you tell if Tofu has spoiled?
Most often, Tofu will smell as it starts to go bad. If you've got smelly tofu, don't use it. You can also check the Best Used By date. If the date has passed, it's likely your tofu is no longer good. Discard unused tofu.

Can you freeze tofu?

Yes, you can freeze tofu. In fact, if you're making a tofu chili, we recommend it - as it firms more and allows you to "crumble" it. If you're freezing tofu for use later - and don't want to impact the texture, we recommend that you leave the tofu in your refrigerator for 24 hours before using to allow the tofu to thaw.

Can tofu be eaten raw?
Yes, but we don't recommend it! Tofu is best when it is cooked so it is a bit firm on the outside, but moist on the inside. We've got some great recipes to help, or you can sign-up for our e-club and we'll send a monthly e-newsletter filled with new recipes to try, hints for cooking and even some money saving coupons!

What is the best thing to do with Tofu?
It depends on who you ask. . .Most people tend to use Tofu in traditional stir-fry recipes. You can cube firm tofu to grill up some kabobs in the summer, or you can mix in some silken tofu into your morning smoothie. There really are countless ways you can incorporate Tofu into your diet. Check out our recipes pages for some new ideas to try tonight!

What is the easiest way to prepare tofu?
Using Nasoya Super Firm Cubed Tofu, you can make a stir-fry in about 10 minutes. Easy enough?

How long does it take to cook tofu?
Starting with a hot skillet, it takes about 5 minutes to cook tofu.

How can I get my significant other to eat tofu?
Wow, this is a tough one. . .We know it's not easy, but we've tried to make it easier by providing products that can make healthy, great-tasting meals in minutes. Tofu is good for you, and using in your favorite recipe (or his) can help you make a healthy and delicious meal. Try one of our recipes of the month and give Tofu a chance!

Specific Questions Nayo/Shelf Stable Dressings:

Do these have to be refrigerated prior to opening?
No. These products are fine to use right off the shelf. However, they do require refrigeration once they have been opened.

Do these have to be refrigerated after opening?
Yes. Though they can stay in your pantry for up to one year (see the Best Used By date), they must be refrigerated once they have been opened.

How do you properly store these products?
These products are shelf-stable and should be kept at room temperature (60-80 degree Fahrenheit). Do not expose these products to extreme heat or cold. Once opened, store in your refrigerator.

How long will Nayonaise last after opening?
It's best to use the product within a month of opening it. Definitely, use all the product by the Best Used By date (printed on the jar).

How long will shelf-stable Dressings last after opening?
It's best to use the product within a month of opening it. Definitely, use all the product by the Best Used By date (printed on the jar).

Wraps/Noodles:

How do you cook wraps and noodles?
Each package of Nasoya and Azumaya wraps and noodles have the cooking instructions (and 3 handy recipes) printed on the back of the card. Our noodles are require only 2 minutes in boiling water, while the wraps depend on how they are being prepared (baked/fried). For best results, follow the directions for the recipe you are making.

Do you have to pre-cook the wraps?
No. The wraps are ready to use right out of the package. If they are slightly dry, add a drop of water to moisten the wraps. Do not soak the wraps before use.

How do I properly store wraps and noodles?
Air is the enemy of freshness. It's best to keep extra noodles or wraps in an airtight bag (remove all the air). You may find it helpful to moisten a paper towel and slide it in the bag to help keep the wraps moist.

How long will noodles and wraps last after opening?
You want to use noodles or wraps within a few days of opening the package. At most, keep for 1 week. Discard unused noodles or wraps and open a new package. Always use the noodles or wraps by the Best Used Date.

Can I use noodles and wraps after "Use by" date?
While they may not show signs of spoilage, we do not recommend using the noodles or wraps after the Best Used By date.

Why are the noodles and wraps sold refrigerated?
Our noodle products are fresh, not dried like many shelf-stable (traditional) varieties. Our products contain no preservatives and cook within 2 minutes.