Manitoba Harvest is partnering with a consortium of industry leaders through Protein Industries Canada (PIC) to develop new hemp and pea varieties with increased protein content, differential starch content, and improved texture.
Manitoba Harvest will lend its expertise in food innovation, product development, and formulation, to improve the potency and functionality of hemp and pea protein, making hemp proteins suitable for a wider range of food applications, according to a release.
“Diversity of ingredients within Canada’s plant-based foods and ingredients sector is an essential element of helping it grow to become a global leader,” says Bill Greuel, CEO of PIC. “Manitoba Harvest, through their partnership with NRGene, Farmer’s Business Network and Pulse Genetics, is displaying great leadership in the area of hemp ingredient development. The hemp-pea flour blend they develop through this project will go a long way in meeting the needs of consumers and food manufacturers alike.”
Jared Simon, president of Manitoba Harvest, says that they are committed to providing customers with the best hemp products available. “Developing plant-based protein products with superior taste, functionality and nutrition aligns perfectly with our objectives as a brand, and we have a history of leadership at the farm level, working directly with growers to improve quality throughout the hemp supply chain.”
NRGene, Farmer’s Business Network, Pulse Genetics, and Manitoba Harvest together have committed $3.3 million to the project, with Protein Industries Canada investing an additional $1.8 million.
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