A group of companies in the soybean supply chain, with the support of Protein Industries Canada, is investing in a new breeding program for early-maturing, high-protein, non-GMO soybean varieties suited to Canada’s climate.
The group will work toward development of a novel, soy-based plant protein product for Canadian and global consumers. NRGene Canada, Pulse Genetics, Hensall Co-op and Yumasoy Foods, Ltd. are leading the project, which they said will strengthen Canada’s identity-preserved (IP) non-GMO soybean market and accelerate innovation in plant-based food production. The investment will create new opportunities for farmers, while supporting domestic processing and expanding access to high-value international markets, they said.
“With the support of Protein Industries Canada, one of Canada’s five global innovation clusters, this project will expand soybean production across our country, helping to not only create new economic opportunities and a competitive edge for Canadian farmers and producers but also meet the increasing global demand for quality plant-based products,” said the Honorable Mélanie Joly, minister of industry and minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions. “This is Canadian innovation meeting its purpose at home and on the global stage.”
The new soybean varieties developed in this project will be specifically bred for improved yield, resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN), and better adaptation to a range of environmental conditions.
The specialty soybean market is growing, particularly in regions like Asia, where they are used in products such as soya milk and tofu. Over the past several years, Canadian farmers have faced increasing challenges in maintaining their share of this export market. With fewer commercial investments in non-GMO varieties, farmers have fewer seed options, especially outside traditional growing zones.
This investment is designed to change that, the group said.
“Canadian farmers have a proud history of producing high-quality, identity-preserved soybeans that meet the most demanding international food standards,” said Robert Hunter, chief executive officer of Protein Industries Canada. “This investment gives our farmers the tools they need to stay competitive in the global market, while also creating new economic opportunities here at home, for both farmers and food processors.”
For farmers, this means greater choice, improved returns, and the ability to access a premium market with more confidence. For the sector, it means the potential to expand acres and rebuild Canada’s competitive edge in food-grade soybeans.
“I’m thankful to be a part of this visionary project funded by Protein Industries Canada and supported by our consortium partners, each bringing valuable expertise and insight to the table,” said Pete Giesbrecht from Pulse Genetics. “Our goal of developing innovative, regionally adapted food-grade soy varieties with unique quality traits for both domestic and export markets will create value and expanded opportunity for Canadian farmers.”
The plant protein product the group will develop will be the first single-ingredient plant-based protein of its kind. Extruded whole non-GMO soybeans will be used to create high-protein meat-like shreds that retain the bean’s full complement of nutrients. Designed to serve as a mainstream protein such as tofu, chicken, pork, or steak, the product brings versatility, nutrition, and sustainability to the growing plant-based food market, the companies said.
“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,” said Gina Arsens, CEO of Yumasoy Foods Ltd. “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.”
This project is one of many under Protein Industries Canada’s broader effort to support domestic innovation and drive forward The Road to $25 Billion — a national vision to grow Canada’s plant-based food, feed, and ingredient sector into a C$25 billion industry and make Canada the leading provider of plant-based ingredients.
Protein Industries Canada invested C$1.9 million ($1.38 million) into this project, with the industry partners investing C$2.4 million ($1.75 million).
