Allergen: Soybeans – what belongs to it, hidden sources and labelling
Soybeans is one of the 14 allergens that must be declared under Annex II of Regulation (EU) No 1169/2011 – including for non-prepacked food at a buffet. It covers soybeans and edamame, tofu, tempeh, miso, soy milk, soy sauce, soy protein, soy flour. In Catering Cat the allergen has the code F.
What belongs to it?
- Soybeans and edamame
- Tofu, tempeh, miso, soy milk
- Soy sauce, soy protein, soy flour
- Soy lecithin (E 322 from soy)
Where is it often hidden?
- Soy sauce in marinades and dressings
- Vegan and vegetarian meat alternatives
- Bakery products and chocolate (lecithin)
- Sausages and ready-made sauces (soy protein)
- Asian dishes
Exemptions under Annex II
- Fully refined soybean oil and fat
- Natural mixed tocopherols (E 306) and natural tocopherol derivatives from soy
- Vegetable-oil-derived phytosterols and phytosterol esters from soy
- Plant stanol ester produced from soybean sterols
Tips for catering and buffets
- Soy sauce usually contains wheat too – then also declare cereals containing gluten.
- Check convenience products for lecithin (E 322) in the ingredient list.
- Meat alternatives are often soy-based – don't just label them “vegan”.
How it appears on the buffet card
On the back of the card, the allergen is shown with its full name (“Soybeans”), as a short name (“Soy”) or as the code “F” with a legend – depending on the display you choose in Catering Cat.
Frequently asked questions
Does soybean oil have to be declared?
Fully refined soybean oil is exempt. Cold-pressed or not fully refined soybean oil must be declared.
Does soy lecithin have to be declared?
Yes, lecithin from soy is a soy product and must be declared.
All 14 allergens
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Start for freeThis page summarises the rules in general terms and is not legal advice. When in doubt, ask your local food authority.