Untargeted mass spectrometry-based metabolomics approach unveils molecular changes in heat-damaged and normal soybean

China is the largest soybean importer in the world. Soybean is usually imported from abroad to China by sea. Unfortunately, soybean is vulnerable to heat damage due to high temperature and humidity during sea transportation. In this study, the sea transportation of soybean was simulated and a mass spectrometry-based untargeted metabolomics approach was utilized to unveil molecular changes in heat-damaged and normal soybean. A total of 266 metabolites were identified and the changes in abundance of various metabolites were determined. In response to heat treatment stress, metabolites were differentially regulated in various metabolic processes. This study indicated that heat damage may lead to nutrient loss by oxidation or oil exudation, as well as vitality loss by decreasing energy availability. These results provide guidance for the international trade of soybean. [Display omitted] •The changes in abundance of various metabolites were determined.•Metabolites were differentially regulated under heat stress.•Heat damage may lead to nutrient loss by oxidation or oil exudation.•Heat damage may lead to vitality loss by decreasing energy availability.