Manitoba Harvest announces CAD 5.1m partnership for the development of hemp and pea varieties

Hemp foods company Manitoba Harvest has announced a CAD 5.1 million research partnership with an industry leader consortium through Protein Industries Canada.

Manitoba, NRGene, Farmer’s Business Network and Pulse Genetics will be developing new hemp and pea varieties with increased protein content, differential starch content, and improved texture. Manitoba, a subsidiary of Tilray, said that this would increase the potential for hemp usage in the growing plant-based protein movement.

Protein Industries Canada’s CEO, Bill Greuel, said: “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.

“Manitoba Harvest, through its 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.”

Manitoba’s president, Jared Simon, added: “…we are committed to providing our 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.”

Manitoba, NRGene, Farmer’s Business Network and Pulse Genetics are investing £3.3 million into the project, with Protein Industries Canada funding an additional $1.8 million.