The Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Marie-Claude Bibeau announced an investment of over $4.3 million to support Canada’s pulse and special crops farmers meet demand for sustainable plant-based protein.

An investment of over $2.3 million will enable Pulse Canada to continue to develop its ’25 by 25′ strategy to have 25 per cent of pulse production in new markets by 2025. Pulse Canada will use the funding to promote the benefits of pulses and their ingredient derivatives to international food manufacturers and foodservice operators as a sustainable, value-added, healthy ingredient across a wide range for food sectors.

In addition, close to $1.5 million in funding will enhance the Ag Transport Coalition Railway Performance Measurement Program. It provides individual shippers with insight on supply chain performance and a common data platform to find transportation solutions to efficiently get their products to market.

A further $429,000 will help Pulse Canada assess and resolve barriers to international trade, including challenges created by the pandemic and create more stability for exports.

The Canadian Special Crops Association is also receiving $127,944 to advance international opportunities for Canada’s pulse and special crops industry, which includes beans, chickpeas, lentils, peas, canary seeds, buckwheat, sunflower seeds and mustard seeds.