Protein Industries Canada, an industry-led, non-profit organization, in collaboration with Burcon NutraScience, HPS Food & Ingredients, and Puratos Canada, has introduced an initiative to boost the production of plant-based protein ingredients derived from hemp and sunflower. The project is backed by a CAD 6.9 million (~USD 5.1 million) investment, with Protein Industries Canada contributing CAD 3 million (~USD 2.2 million).

The initiative will focus on developing hemp and sunflower protein isolate and sunflower protein concentrate for various food and beverage applications, including baking, beverages, and meat substitutes. The key attributes of these proteins include superior taste, texture, color, and functionality. 

Burcon and HPS are working toward identifying the most suitable hemp variety for ingredient production and enhancing the relevant processing technology, while Puratos and Burcon will facilitate the integration of these ingredients into a range of food and beverage products.

Analyst QuickTake: Protein Industries Canada is an avid supporter of novel and plant-based food industries. In 2023, it teamed up with Innovate UK to announce a CAD 20 million (~USD 15 million) joint call for collaborative R&D projects and issued a CAD 10 million (~USD 8 million) call for plant-based food tech projects utilizing AI to expedite the commercialization of novel plant-based food and ingredients.