Canada has committed $4.3 million to a new project designed to strengthen its position in the specialty soybean market and support the development of plant-based food products. The initiative, supported by Protein Industries Canada, focuses on advancing the competitiveness of Canada’s identity-preserved (IP) non-GMO soybean sector, both domestically and internationally.
The project is being led by NRGene Canada, Pulse Genetics, Hensall Co-op, and Yumasoy Foods Ltd., with the goal of improving the availability of high-quality, non-GMO soybeans. The investment will benefit Canadian farmers by providing them with new opportunities in domestic processing and by expanding their access to premium international markets.
Breeding for northern climates
A key part of the project is the development of new soybean varieties suited for Canada’s northern climates, including Manitoba and northern Ontario. A breeding program will focus on creating early-maturing, high-protein, non-GMO soybeans that are resistant to soybean cyst nematode (SCN) and adapted to varying environmental conditions. These new varieties are expected to reduce the yield gap between GMO and non-GMO soybeans, giving Canadian farmers greater options and improving the overall competitiveness of the sector.
“We are working to create varieties that meet the global demand for food-grade soy while enabling more farmers across Canada to compete in premium markets,” said Masood Risvi, General Manager of NRGene Canada.
The project also involves the development of a novel soy-based plant protein product. Using extruded whole non-GMO soybeans, this product will offer a meat-like texture and retain the full nutritional value of the soybean. The high-protein product will be versatile, serving as an alternative to meat in various food products such as tofu, chicken, pork, or steak.
Hensall Co-op is also participating in the project and will help Canadian farmers meet the strict quality standards needed for international markets. The co-op is focused on supporting the production of identity-preserved soybeans and connecting growers with markets that demand sustainably grown products.
A $25 billion vision
Protein Industries Canada has contributed $1.9 million to the project, with an additional $2.4 million coming from industry partners. This funding is part of Canada’s broader efforts to grow its plant-based sector into a $25 billion industry, making the country a key player in the global market for plant-based ingredients and products.
Gina Arsens, CEO of Yumasoy Foods Ltd., noted, “This investment is a game changer—not just for Yumasoy, but for consumers seeking clean-label, high-protein foods, and for the future of food innovation in Canada. It allows us to scale a uniquely Canadian product that transforms whole soybeans into a versatile, meat-like protein—opening new doors for business growth, sustainability, and more food choices at home and around the world.”
