Soybeans were scouted at the R8 growth stage and bright orange, rounded masses were observed in patches along soybean stems and on pods.
Conclusion
This issue was confirmed by an NC State Extension Specialist as Slime Mold. Slime mold comes from the species Physarum, which are non-pathogenic organisms. Therefore it is not labeled as a disease. These non-pathogenic organisms are specifically saprophyte organisms, which are not a threat to the crop as a whole. The bright orange color comes from the organism being at a more mature stage. The initial color of this organism appears white.