Feds invest $15 million in pulse sector

Ottawa, Ont. – Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) is investing $15 million in Canada’s pulse sector.

The investment comes under the Growing Forward 2 policy framework, and will go to Pulse Canada to lead a research cluster of industry experts, AAFC research centre scientists and universities. Pulse Canada is the national industry association representing growers, processors and traders of pulse crops in Canada.

Planned research will focus on developing new pulse varieties, improving agronomic practices, developing healthier foods, and contributing to potential health claims linked to pulses. The aim is to enhance competitiveness and sustainability within the sector, while increasing the demand for Canadian pulses.

Key export crop

“Canadian pulse producers play a prominent role in global markets, and innovation is the cornerstone of a profitable and sustainable future for this vital sector,” said Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, in making the announcement. “By bringing together businesses and experts to create new ideas from the lab to the marketplace, we are helping our pulse growers gain a competitive edge to capture new market opportunities and meet the demands of consumers the world over.”

Farm sales of pulses reached $1.7 billion in 2012, with almost $2 billion in exports.