Protein Industries Canada (PIC) and Innovate-UK have launched collaborative research and development (R&D) projects, under a bilateral partnership between Canada and the UK.
The two organisations, along with the other consortium members, are investing $5.7m into two joint R&D projects, to advance plant-based ingredients and foods.
The projects build on an ongoing partnership between Canada and the UK, to strengthen collaboration focused on plant-based food and ingredients.
It aims to strengthen the relationship between the UK and Canadian food sectors, towards achieving net zero and sustainable food supply chains.
Innovate UK healthy living and agriculture domain interim executive chair and executive director Stella Peace said: “These UK-Canada collaborative R&D projects highlight the power of international partnerships in driving forward innovation in the plant-based protein sector.
“They open up promising export opportunities for the UK, fostering economic growth, while simultaneously responding to global consumer demands for sustainable and nutritious food options.
“By addressing key challenges such as food security, sustainability and public health, these innovations will contribute to a healthier population and a healthier planet, reinforcing the importance of collaboration in making life better.”
In September last year, R&D projects were announced, and each country hosted delegations for new collaborations in the food and ingredient processing sector.
As part of the first project, Canadian companies Liven Proteins and ALT-PRO Advantage will partner with UK companies New Wave Biotech and Formidable Foods.
The second project brings together Canada-based companies Tartistes and Wamame with UK-based Jampa’s and the University of Nottingham.
It will launch a range of plant-based products with a unique improved nutritional profile found in animal-based products and current plant-based meat analogues (PBMAs).
Protein Industries Canada interim CEO Frank Hart said: “As Canada builds towards its goal of a $25 billion ingredient and food processing industry, we know that we will not reach that goal by only working within our own borders.
“Canada requires customers, whether that be a food company using Canadian ingredients, or a consumer in a grocery store.
“Collaborations such as this one are key to supporting Canadian companies in advancing their innovation, acquiring those new customers, and entering global supply chains with high-value products.”
