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Soybean discoloration reaches west central Missouri, but yields hold steady

A farmer in west central Missouri is finding discolored soybeans as he starts harvesting this week.

“I think most everyone is seeing the same discoloration. They’re just kind of ugly, but the yield seems to be holding,” Tom Waters, a farmer in Ray County, tells Brownfield. “We’re not getting any dock for the discoloration, it’s just a strange year for soybeans.”

Waters says the dark brown bean color doesn’t hurt the quality, according to the closest soybean processor in Kansas City.

“Apparently the discoloration isn’t impacting the oil color with any problem, so they’re taking them. It’s a good thing, because in the past, we’ve had some green beans that the processors don’t like because they discolor the oil.”

Waters says he’s optimistic to avoid more damaged beans as harvest continues, and looking forward to a warm, dry stretch of weather.