RRI.CO.ID, Bogor - Concerns about tempe consumption harming men have resurfaced recently due to phytoestrogen content in soybeans. However, this was debunked by a professor of IPB University's Faculty of Health and Nutrition Prof. Ahmad Sulaeman.

As quoted by IPB University's website on Tuesday, 3 Msrch 2026, Ahmad Sulaeman explained that compounds in tempe resemble estrogen chemically but function differently biologically. Structural similarity does not mean isoflavones automatically act like human estrogen hormones inside the body.

“Actually, the compound has a chemical formula similar to estrogen, but it is not the same,” he stated. He added that isoflavones such as daidzein and genistein do not automatically perform estrogenic functions.

He noted misunderstandings often arise when people focus only on chemical names. Phytoestrogens from plants do not work identically to estrogen hormones produced naturally by humans.

The IPB professor further explained that fermentation reduces phytoestrogen levels compared to other soybean products. The fermentation process breaks complex compounds into forms more easily digested by the human body.

Tempe also contains high protein, vitamin B12 from fermentation, iron, and dietary fiber. These nutrients support digestive health and metabolic processes when consumed as part of balanced nutrition.

Professor Ahmad emphasized there is no specific consumption limit because tempe is not a food additive. Intake should follow recommended nutritional adequacy levels according to individual protein requirements and needs.

He concluded that tempe is safe for men when consumed in reasonable portions. "Even better, its complete nutritional profile makes tempe a healthy food choice suitable for various population groups," Prof Ahmad said.