Key Takeaways
- Protein Industries Canada co-invests $1.9 million in a $4.3 million initiative to strengthen Canada’s non-GMO soybean sector
- Led by NRGene Canada, Pulse Genetics, Hensall Co-op, and Yumasoy Foods Ltd.
- Project focuses on developing early-maturing, high-protein soybean varieties for northern growing regions
- Includes development of a novel whole-soy plant-based protein product for domestic and export markets
- Supports Canada’s broader goal to grow the plant-based sector under the Road to $25 Billion strategy
Protein Industries Canada Announces Investment in Specialty Soybean and Plant-Based Innovation
Protein Industries Canada, one of Canada’s five global innovation clusters, has announced its support for a new $4.3 million project aimed at enhancing Canada’s competitiveness in the identity-preserved (IP), non-GMO soybean market. The project will also advance innovation in plant-based food production for both domestic and international markets.
Led by NRGene Canada, Pulse Genetics, Hensall Co-op, and Yumasoy Foods Ltd., the initiative seeks to provide farmers with improved crop options and expand Canada’s position in the premium soybean export sector.
Protein Industries Canada-Led Effort Targets Soybean Breeding and Regional Adaptation
A key goal of the project is to develop new non-GMO soybean varieties that offer high protein content, better resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN), and improved adaptability to growing conditions in regions like Manitoba and northern Ontario.
“Canadian farmers have a proud history of producing high-quality, identity-preserved soybeans that meet the most demanding international food standards,” said Robert Hunter, CEO of Protein Industries Canada. “This investment gives our farmers the tools they need to stay competitive in the global market, while also creating new economic opportunities here at home.”
Project Extends Beyond Crop Development to Support Food Innovation
In its second phase, the project will introduce a new plant-based protein product made from extruded whole soybeans. The resulting ingredient will be designed to mimic meat-like textures while retaining full nutritional content—serving as a single-ingredient alternative to traditional proteins.
“This investment is a game changer—not just for Yumasoy, but for consumers seeking clean-label, high-protein foods,” said Gina Arsens, CEO of Yumasoy Foods Ltd.
Aligning with Protein Industries Canada’s National Growth Strategy
The initiative is part of Protein Industries Canada’s broader plan to grow the country’s plant-based food, feed, and ingredient industry under the Road to $25 Billion strategy. This national vision aims to position Canada as a global leader in the plant-based sector.
Protein Industries Canada contributed $1.9 million to the project, with $2.4 million invested by industry partners. By focusing on both upstream crop development and downstream product innovation, the project aims to deliver value across the supply chain, from Canadian farmers to global consumers.
Protein Industries Creating Value Through Collaboration
Each consortium partner brings expertise in genetics, agronomy, processing, and market development. Together with Protein Industries Canada, the group aims to accelerate growth in non-GMO soybeans while fostering regionally adapted solutions for farmers and manufacturers alike.
“This initiative supports innovation, regional diversification, and sustainable food system development,” said Pete Giesbrecht of Pulse Genetics. “We’re proud to be part of a project that delivers economic and agronomic benefits to Canadian producers.”
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