Enhancing genomics in Canadian soybeans
Genetics
Consortium Contribution
$2,393,340.85
Cluster Contribution
$1,890,006.15
NRGene Canada
Hensall Co-op
Pulse Genetics
Yumasoy Foods Ltd.
Goal
To strengthen Canada’s identity-preserved (IP) non-GMO soybean market and develop a novel, soy-based plant protein product for Canadian and global consumers
Project Summary
A new breeding program will be launched to develop early-maturing, high-protein, non-GMO soybean varieties suited to Canada’s northern climates, including Manitoba and northern Ontario. These new varieties will be specifically bred for improved yield, resistance to soybean cyst nematode (SCN), and better adaptation to a range of environmental conditions, helping producers reduce the yield gap between GMO and non-GMO crops.
A second phase will see the development of a novel, soy-based plant protein product for Canadian and global consumers. This will be the first single-ingredient plant-based protein of its kind. This innovation uses extruded whole non-GMO soybeans 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.
