One type of low-phytate soybean is derived via a single recessive mutation (i.e., an SNP) in the gene which codes for seed-expressed myo-inositol l-phosphate synthase.

Because phytate (myo-inositol hexaphosphate) is not digestible in humans and other monogastric animals (e.g., swine, poultry, etc.), substituting low-phytate soybeans in place of traditional soybean varieties in those animals' diets helps to lessen adverse environmental impact of animal feeding (e.g., manure phosphorous emissions in excess of cropland requirements).

Swine fed a diet in which traditional soybean varieties have been replaced by low-phytate soybeans produce up to 20% less phosphorous in their manure; thereby lessening the phosphorous impact of those swine on the environement. Due to the fact that the amino acids lysine, methionine, cysteine, arginine, and threonine all become more "bioavailable" (i.e., available for the animal to build its body tissue, or otherwise utilize) in a low-phytate diet, low-phytate diets also help reduce excess nitrogen emissions.