Bonsoy is a brand of soy milk that has become increasingly popular in recent years. Originally developed in Japan, Bonsoy is now widely available in Australia, New Zealand, and other parts of the world. This article will explore the history of Bonsoy, its nutritional benefits, and some of the controversies that have surrounded the brand.
History of Bonsoy
Bonsoy was first developed in the early 1980s in Japan by the company Marusan-Ai Co. Ltd. The company was founded in 1951 and had been producing soy milk since the early 1970s. The development of Bonsoy was a response to the growing demand for a high-quality, organic soy milk in Japan.
Bonsoy quickly became popular among health-conscious consumers in Japan, and by the late 1980s, the company was exporting the product to Australia. It was around this time that Bonsoy first gained a following among the Australian vegan and vegetarian communities.
In the 1990s, Bonsoy was acquired by the Australian company Sanitarium Health Food Company, which has since become the sole distributor of the product in Australia. Since then, Bonsoy has become increasingly popular in Australia and New Zealand, and has gained a following in other parts of the world as well.
Nutritional Benefits of Bonsoy
One of the main reasons that Bonsoy has become so popular is its nutritional value. Soy milk is a rich source of protein, and contains many essential vitamins and minerals. Bonsoy is made from organic soybeans that are grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, which makes it a healthy and environmentally-friendly choice.
In addition to being a rich source of protein, Bonsoy is also a good source of fiber and contains many essential vitamins and minerals, including calcium, iron, and vitamin B12. It is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol-free, which makes it a heart-healthy alternative to dairy milk.
Controversies Surrounding Bonsoy
Despite its popularity, Bonsoy has also been the subject of controversy in recent years. In 2008, several people in Australia became seriously ill after drinking Bonsoy, and an investigation revealed that the product contained dangerously high levels of iodine.
Iodine is an essential mineral that is necessary for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland. However, excessive intake of iodine can lead to thyroid problems and other health issues. The investigation revealed that the high levels of iodine in Bonsoy were due to the addition of a seaweed extract called kombu, which is commonly used in Japanese cuisine.
Following the investigation, Bonsoy was recalled in Australia and New Zealand, and the company was fined for breaching food safety regulations. Since then, the company has reformulated the product to remove the seaweed extract and reduce the iodine content, and has introduced new packaging to make it clear that the product is not suitable for people with thyroid problems.
Despite the controversy, Bonsoy remains a popular choice among health-conscious consumers who are looking for a high-quality, organic soy milk. Its nutritional value and delicious taste make it a great choice for people who are lactose intolerant, vegan, or simply looking for a healthy alternative to dairy milk.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Bonsoy is a brand of soy milk that has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its nutritional value and delicious taste. Despite some controversies surrounding the product in the past, Bonsoy remains a popular choice among health-conscious consumers who are looking for an environmentally-friendly and healthy alternative to dairy milk.
