RELATIONSHIPS BETWEEN SOYBEAN COMPONENTS AND TOFU TEXTURE1

Abstract
Tofu was prepared from samples of Amsoy 71 and Vinton or Vinton 81 soybeans grown in different environments. Relationships between soybean, soymilk and tofu protein, lipid, phytic acid, calcium, copper and iron were examined. All components except lipid in soybeans were significantly correlated with the same component in soymilk, but only phytic acid, copper and iron were significantly correlated in soybeans and tofu (moist basis). When relationships were examined on a dry basis, soybean and tofu protein were significantly correlated (r = 0.93).Soybean phytic acid was significantly correlated with tofu calcium (r = 0.90). Tofu calcium and hardness (r = 0.73) and springiness (r = 0.83). were significantly related, and tofu protein was significantly related to fracturability (r = 0.75).The higher‐protein varieties (Vinton/Vinton 81) generally produced tofu that had a higher protein content and a firmer, more springy texture than that of the Amsoy 71 beans. Phytic acid may preferentially bind the calcium coagulant, altering the curd structure and the yield, composition and texture of the resulting tofu.