Canada

World Animal Protection Canada pig

© World Animal Protection Canada
Politics & Law

Canada to Host National Election Debate on Animal Protection

On April 23, a virtual debate focused on animal protection policies will bring together federal candidates from four major Canadian political parties. The event, held via Zoom, will be conducted in both English and French with simultaneous translation, and is open for media observation and public registration. The debate is organized by Animal Justice, the Montreal SPCA, the Vancouver Humane Society, the BC SPCA, and World Animal Protection. It marks only the second time a national debate dedicated to animal welfare has been held during a Canadian federal election campaign. Cross-party voices join the conversation Confirmed participants include Nathaniel Erskine-Smith (Liberal, Beaches—East York), Alistair MacGregor (NDP, Cowichan—Malahat—Langford), Elizabeth May (Green Party, Saanich—Gulf Islands), and Yves Perron (Bloc Québécois, Berthier-Maskinongé). All federal parties with representation in …

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Prime roots deli sandwich quorn

©Prime Roots
Business Wire

Prime Roots Announces Canadian Debut

Bringing the first mycelium-based deli meats to Canada, redefining deli for a new generation with allergen-free, minimally processed options TORONTO–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Prime Roots is a new-school deli brand bringing a new generation of consumers to the category with its revolutionary mycelium-based deli meats. Prime Roots is officially launching in Canada with Canada’s first mycelium-based deli meats. These products provide an allergen-free, not ultra-processed, and operationally friendly solution for foodservice operators looking to tap into the growing demand for plant-based options. With 35% of Canadians identifying as flexitarian, vegan, or vegetarian, menu innovation with Prime Roots presents an exciting opportunity for restaurants, grocery delis, and foodservice providers. Since its successful U.S. launch two years ago, Prime Roots has delivered proven incremental revenue for partners in grocery deli, …

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The Cultivated B siemens hannover messe

© The Cultivated B
Fairs & Events

n!Biomachines and Siemens Focus on Simplifying Biomanufacturing for Alternative Proteins

At the ongoing Hannover Messe, The Cultivated B and Siemens have teamed up to present advancements in biomanufacturing for the alternative protein sector. The companies are showcasing their AUXO V® bioreactor, a key technology aimed at scaling alternative protein production through economically sustainable methods. n!Biomachines, a subsidiary of The Cultivated B, is at the forefront of developing bioreactors designed for the food industry and other sectors. These bioreactors play a central role in producing proteins traditionally sourced from animals, but through biomanufacturing methods that eliminate the need for animal agriculture. The bioreactors are built with an emphasis on scalability, precision, and ease of use, allowing for the transition from lab-scale production to industrial-level output. Hamid Noori, CEO of n!Biomachines, commented on the partnership with Siemens, …

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Odd Burger

© Odd Burger
Fast Food

Odd Burger Pauses US Expansion Due to Tariff Concerns, Strengthens Canadian Operations

Canadian vegan fast-food chain Odd Burger has suspended its planned US expansion due to increasing political tensions between Canada and the United States. Just last week, the company outlined plans to expand into the US, which included raising capital to cover costs associated with tariffs and building new manufacturing facilities. The strategy was intended to help mitigate the impact of tariffs and strengthen the company’s supply chain. At the time, McInnes had expressed confidence in the company’s ability to quickly scale while maintaining pricing stability and product quality. However, these expansion efforts are now on hold, and the capital will instead be directed toward strengthening Odd Burger’s operations in Canada. The decision to pause US expansion also comes in response to upcoming US tariffs, scheduled to take …

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canada soybeans

Created by vegconomist
Agriculture / Agribusiness

Canada Launches Support Program for Domestic Reformulation Amid US Trade Uncertainty

Protein Industries Canada has introduced a $3 million program intended to support Canadian ingredient manufacturers and food processors as they adapt to shifting trade dynamics with the United States. The new initiative is designed to facilitate the development or reformulation of products using Canadian-grown ingredients for the domestic market. The Strengthening the Canadian Supply Chain Program will reimburse up to 75% of eligible project costs, with a funding cap of $200,000 per project. To qualify, projects must involve at least one of the following components: reformulating products with domestically produced ingredients, scaling up and commercializing Canadian food products for Canadian consumers, or scaling up domestically produced ingredients for use by Canadian manufacturers. Emphasis on Canadian crops Projects must use Canadian feedstocks or ingredients derived from …

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Ontario Genomics

© Ontario Genomics
Manufacturing & Technology

Canadian Food Biomanufacturing Projected to Create 125,000 Jobs by 2050

Ontario Genomics has released an updated Food Innovation in Canada Report, providing economic projections for the country’s food biomanufacturing sector. The report estimates that by 2050, the industry could be valued at $18.8 billion and generate approximately 125,000 jobs. Food biomanufacturing, which includes cellular agriculture and precision fermentation, involves producing food, ingredients, and textiles using biotechnology rather than traditional agricultural methods. The updated analysis, conducted by Dr. Michael von Massow from the University of Guelph, assesses the industry’s potential and the factors required for growth. Ontario is projected to play a central role in this sector, with a potential $13 billion industry that could create over 91,000 jobs. The report identifies the need for a national strategy, investment in large-scale production facilities, research and development …

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Juicy Marbles pork

© Juicy Marbles
Products & Launches

Juicy Marbles Expands Meaty Meat Line With Whole Cut Plant-Based Pork

Plant-based food company Juicy Marbles has introduced another product to it’s Meaty Meat line. According to the company, “Pork-ish,” a 6.4-ounce whole cut of plant-based pork, is the first-ever whole cut of pork in the plant-based meat category. The product is priced 26% lower per ounce compared to the brand’s previous offerings, adding another affordable choice to the growing plant-based meat market. The product became available last week on Juicy Marbles’ website. This release follows the successful debut of Meaty Meat’s first flavor, “Lamb-ish,” which sold out within 24 hours in the United States when it was launched last month. The company has built its reputation on creating unique plant-based products, like the “world’s first” marbled plant-based steak, tenderloin, and ribs with bones. “Pork-ish” is …

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CULT Food Science

© CULT Food Science
Investments & Finance

Cult Food Science Closes Debt Settlements

Cult Food Science, a Canadian food technology platform pioneering the commercialization of cultivated meat, has announced the settlement of outstanding debts owed to its creditors. As part of the settlement agreements, the company issued 2,997,000 shares at a price of $0.05 each. Of these, 1,017,000 are subject to a four month and one day hold period due to National Instrument 45-105 – Prospectus Exemptions. The remainder are not subject to a hold period, in accordance with Ontario Securities Commission Rule 72-503 – Distributions Outside Canada. The news comes after the company’s board of directors determined that it would be in the business’ best interest to complete the debt settlement in order to preserve cash for working capital. Commercializing exciting technologies Cult Food Science boasts an …

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Chinova Bioworks

Co-founders David Brown and Natasha Dhayagude ©Chinova Bioworks
Startups, Accelerators & Incubators

Natural Products Canada Invests $1.7M in Seven Startups, Including Chinova Bioworks & Henri Nutrition

Natural Products Canada (NPC) has announced an investment of $1.7 million into seven Canadian startups producing innovative bio-based and natural products. The startups are: “Investment in a stronger Canada” The seven companies are all recipients of NPC’s Commercialization Programs, designed to accelerate the path to market. The programs focus on three areas to help companies attract partners and investors — product validation & scaling, talent, and competitive strategy. Called Proof of Concept, Access to Talent, and Fast Track to Financing, NPC’s programs provide startups with up to $350,000 in support. NPC works with the companies as a “strategic angel” throughout the application process, providing guidance and resources from its network of over 4000 investors, industry leaders, and experts. In previous years, NPC has invested in …

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Odd Burger Vegan Fast Food

© Odd Burger
Fast Food

Odd Burger Sees Reduced Losses as Franchise Model Expands in Canada

Odd Burger Corporation has released its financial results for the first quarter of fiscal 2025, reporting revenue growth and a significant reduction in net loss compared to the previous quarter. Revenue for the quarter reached $727,294, marking a 6.2% increase from the prior quarter, while remaining largely unchanged from the same period last year. The company attributed the increase to its expanding franchise network and growing consumer-packaged goods (CPG) business. Net loss for the quarter was $272,476, a sharp decline from the $1.3 million loss reported in the previous quarter. The company also reported improved gross margins, citing its shift towards a franchise model as a contributing factor. Continued expansion across Canada Odd Burger currently operates 20 locations across Canada and continues to focus on …

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Government of Canada

© Government of Canada
Investments & Finance

Canada Invests $5 Million in Konscious Foods to Scale Up Plant-Based Seafood

The Canadian government is investing $5 million in Konscious Foods, a Richmond-based company specializing in plant-based sushi and seafood alternatives. The funding, provided through PacifiCan’s Business Scale-up and Productivity program, will allow the company to expand production, increase exports, and create over 40 new jobs in British Columbia. The funding will also benefit the company’s Canadian suppliers, generating increased demand for locally grown ingredients and contributing to regional economic growth. Canada has been expanding its investment in domestic plant-based protein processing, including crops such as soybeans, peas, and faba beans. Minister of Small Business Rechie Valdez said the investment supports entrepreneurs developing sustainable food products. He explained, “Just like so many communities across Canada, Richmond is home to entrepreneurs who are developing the creative, sustainable …

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Odd Burger new retail products

© Odd Burger
Retail & E-Commerce

Odd Burger Doubles Retail Footprint with Calgary Co-op Deal

Odd Burger has secured a new retail partnership with Calgary Co-op, expanding the distribution of its consumer packaged goods (CPG) line. The agreement will see Odd Burger’s full range of frozen plant-based products available at 22 Calgary Co-op locations across Alberta. The company’s retail product lineup includes five frozen items: Crispy ChickUn Fillet, Chickpea Burger, Smash Burger, ChickUn Pretenders, and Breakfast Sausage. The partnership nearly doubles Odd Burger’s retail distribution points and represents an effort to diversify its revenue streams. James McInnes, CEO and co-founder of Odd Burger, stated, “We are very excited to partner with Calgary Co-op to expand our retail presence in the Alberta market. “We are proud to produce our food at our Canadian manufacturing facility, using primarily Canadian-grown ingredients, and we …

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© Juicy Marbles
Products & Launches

Juicy Marbles Launches First Plant-Based Lamb Whole Cut in North America

Slovenian plant-based meat company Juicy Marbles has announced the launch of Meaty Meat, a whole-cut plant-based lamb alternative. The product, which became available in the US and Canada last week, is the company’s first lamb-style alternative and is positioned as a more affordable entry point into its product lineup. Priced at $10 per 6.4-ounce pack, Meaty Meat is 26% less expensive per ounce than Juicy Marbles’ previous lowest-cost whole-cut product. The company states that the price reduction is part of an effort to make plant-based whole cuts more accessible for everyday use, moving beyond special occasions and restaurant-style meals. Meaty Meat is designed to be a flexible protein option, intended for a variety of dishes. The company states that it can be cooked whole or …

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The Cultivated B auxo bioreactor

© The Cultivated B
Manufacturing & Technology

The Cultivated B Unveils AI-Driven Biosensors to Advance Fermentation Tech

Biotechnology company The Cultivated B has introduced a new AI-driven biosensor system designed to enhance real-time monitoring of cell culture and fermentation processes. The multi-channel biosensors aim to improve bioprocess transparency, allowing engineers to track growth and metabolic activity with high precision. The system integrates real-time data analytics with continuous, high-resolution monitoring, eliminating the need for manual sampling or physical probes. This approach reduces contamination risks while ensuring consistent process conditions. The biosensors are designed to detect specific molecules within a bioreactor, offering a customizable solution that adapts to various bioprocessing requirements. The technology can measure a range of chemicals, including glucose, amino acids, and lactic acid, at concentrations below the picomolar level. “The release of highly advanced biosensors is another crucial step towards our …

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Canadian Food Innovation Network foodtech in canada report

© Canadian Food Innovation Network
Cultivated, Cell-Cultured & Biotechnology

Canada’s Foodtech Report: Is Canada Ready to Compete in the Global Foodtech Race?

The Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN) has released its Foodtech in Canada 2025 Ecosystem Report, offering insights into investment trends, sector strengths, and challenges in Canada’s food technology sector from 2014 to 2024. Canada’s agrifoodtech sector attracted $4.1 billion CAD in investment over the past decade, with $2.3 billion CAD directed to food technology projects. The sector has grown at an 8.4% compound annual growth rate (CAGR), surpassing the global average decline of -2.6%. However, venture capital investment in Canadian foodtech lags behind other countries, with only 40% of funding rounds backed by VC, compared to 60% in the UK and US. Instead, government grants play a larger role, representing 30% of Canadian foodtech funding rounds, compared to just 5% in the UK and 8% …

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Plant-Based Foods of Canada Third Annual Conference

© Plant-Based Foods of Canada
Fairs & Events

PBFC Annual Conference 2025 to Explore Growth and Innovation in Plant-Based Foods

Plant-Based Foods of Canada (PBFC) is set to host its 3rd Annual Conference on February 13, 2025, at the Maple Leaf ThinkFOOD! Centre in Mississauga, Ontario. Under the theme “Cultivating Community: Collaborative Growth in the Plant-Based Foods Industry,” the event will bring together over 125 industry leaders, policymakers, and innovators to discuss the future of plant-based foods in Canada. Insights on innovation and market growth in plant-based foods The Conference will feature a keynote speech by Dave Donnan from Northwestern University, who will explore innovation, scaling, and unmet needs in the plant-based sector. Other notable speakers include Michael LeBlanc, who will discuss evolving retail trends, and Murad Al-Katib, who will highlight future opportunities for plant-based foods in Canada. The event will also host panel discussions …

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Verschuren Centre

© Verschuren Centre
Investments & Finance

Nova Scotia Expands Precision Fermentation Hub with $1M Investment

The Government of Nova Scotia is investing over 1 million Canadian dollars to expand the capabilities of the Verschuren Centre’s fermentation plant in Cape Breton, aiming to enhance automation, support additional clients, and create skilled jobs in the biomanufacturing sector. With a contribution of $1,055,000 from the province’s Community Economic Development Fund, the Verschuren Centre will increase its client capacity from 40 to 50, allowing it to accommodate more advanced projects. The expansion is expected to drive further direct investment and job creation in the sector. According to Glace Bay-Dominion MLA John White, the initiative is a milestone for both Cape Breton and the Verschuren Centre, positioning it as the largest and only provider of precision fermentation of this scale in Canada. “Products manufactured here …

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Else Nutrition adult nutritional shakes

© Else Nutrition
Products & Launches

Else Nutrition Enters Adult Food Market With New Plant-Based Nutritional Shakes

Else Nutrition, a company best known for its plant-based infant nutrition products, has entered the adult food market with the launch of new ready-to-drink nutritional shakes. Claimed to be the first whole-food and plant-powered complete nutrition drink for adults, the products are made with ingredients such as almond butter, sunflower protein flour, and buckwheat flour. Each serving provides 280 calories, 14 grams of high-quality plant protein, and 26 essential vitamins and minerals tailored to meet adults’ health needs. Additionally, the drinks are Clean Label Project Certified and reportedly contain 50% less sugar than leading competitors. With the new shakes, Else Nutrition is working to meet the growing demand for sustainable, plant-based, and dairy-free products. The drinks are designed to provide an easy-to-digest alternative to traditional …

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Jampa's and University of Nottingham develop next generation of plant-based protein products

© Jampa's
R&D

University of Nottingham Partners With Jampa’s & Tartistes to Develop “Next Generation of Plant-Based Protein Products”

The UK’s University of Nottingham has announced that it is partnering with plant-based food producer Jampa’s and Canadian food manufacturer Tartistes to develop the “next generation of plant-based protein products”. Researchers at the University’s Division of Food, Nutrition and Dietetics have been awarded funding for the project as part of the UK-Canada Innovate UK initiative, which aims to foster sustainable innovation and strengthen ties between the UK and Canadian food sectors. The project builds on Jampa’s long-standing relationship with the University’s Food Innovation Centre (FIC), which will lead the product design and development. The collaboration will focus on reformulating Jampa’s plant-based beef alternative to include local and valorised crops that could be used in both the UK and Canadian markets. There will be a strong …

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Burcon sunflower protein

© Burcon
Ingredients

Burcon Unveils High-Purity Sunflower Protein Targeting Weight Management and F&B Applications

Burcon NutraScience Corporation, a Canadian-based company specializing in plant-based protein technologies, has announced the launch of Solatein™, a high-purity sunflower protein isolate. This ingredient is the company’s latest addition to its portfolio of plant-based proteins and is positioned as a sustainable solution for food and beverage manufacturers. According to Burcon, Solatein™ is derived through an upcycling process that transforms by-products from sunflower seed oil production into a non-GMO, hypoallergenic protein ingredient. With a protein purity level exceeding 90%, the product is designed to meet the growing demand for high-quality plant-based protein solutions. The company spotlights Solatein’s neutral flavor, off-white color, and functional properties, which it says make it particularly suited for applications with delicate flavor profiles. The company describes Solatein™ as a versatile ingredient that …

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