Ohio Soybean Council Challenges Consumers to Try Bioproducts -- Launches SoyInside Bioproduct Challenge

COLUMBUS, OH, Apr 06 (MARKET WIRE) --
Today, the Ohio Soybean Council (OSC) announced the launch of the
SoyInside Bioproduct Challenge, in an effort to raise awareness of the
availability and quality of environmentally friendly products made from
soybeans and other agricultural sources. One-hundred and fifty homes and
businesses have already signed up for the Challenge and received their
kits containing an array of bioproducts including degreasers, cleaners,
wipes and other home care products. Many of these products replace
commonly used items made from petroleum or other chemicals.

"Bioproducts are economically and environmentally conscious
alternatives," said Kirk Merritt, Executive Director of OSC. "Our
research has shown that consumers overwhelmingly want to buy
environmentally friendly products, and by promoting bioproducts made from
soybeans, we are also helping to build a new market for Ohio's 26,000
soybean farmers."

According to a recent statewide survey, over 88% of Ohioans would prefer
to purchase a bioproduct in place of a traditional product derived from
petroleum or other chemicals. Additionally, 78% of Ohioans are in favor
of requiring their local and state government entities to use these
products.

One challenge facing consumers and businesses is a lack of awareness of
available bioproducts and where to purchase them. As a result, OSC
developed both the SoyInside Bioproduct Challenge as well as a new
website, www.soyinside.org, to help consumers find where to purchase many
of these products.

"With well over 14,000 bioproducts listed on the Federal Biopreferred
list alone, there is certainly not a lack of products in the
marketplace," said Rocky Black, OSC Director of Bioproduct Utilization
and Outreach. "Ohio has a strategic advantage when it comes to the
bioproduct industry, from product innovation at universities and research
institutions to manufacturers and a population interested in using these
products in their homes and offices."

Ohio is positioned to become a leader in bioproducts, with many
Ohio-based companies such as Sherwin-Williams, Nutek, Scotts Company,
International Paper, Univenture and Ashland already manufacturing a
variety of consumer bioproducts. And with many high-quality research and
development institutions and a strong agricultural base, the state has a
tremendous opportunity to build economic development and jobs in this
growing industry.

"Ohio can step up as a leader in the research, development and
manufacturing of bioproducts," said Keith Kemp, OSC chairman and Preble
County soybean farmer. "And the strength of the agricultural industry in
the state is also a factor in making the most of this great opportunity
for Ohio businesses, consumers and farmers."

To learn more about soy-based bioproducts and where you can purchase
them, visit www.soyinside.org. If you or your business is interested in
participating in the SoyInside Bioproduct Challenge, contact the Ohio
Soybean Council at (614)476-3100.

About the Ohio Soybean Council
Headquartered in Worthington, the Ohio
Soybean Council is governed by a 17-member volunteer farmer board, which
directs the Soybean Promotion and Research Program. The program's primary
goal is to improve soybean profitability by targeting research and
development projects using the investment of farmer-contributed funds.
For more information: www.soyohio.org.

CONTACT:
Ian Nickey
614.460.9640
Email Contact

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