Cintech joins forces with INAF to develop the action plan for the future Center of Expertise on Plant Proteins
TO SUPPORT THE BIO-FOOD SECTOR IN THE DEVELOPMENT AND MARKETING OF PLANT PROTEIN-BASED FOODS, CINTECH AGROALIMENTAIRE AND THE INAF AT
LAVAL UNIVERSITY ARE JOINTLY DEVELOPING AN ACTION PLAN TO SET UP THE
PLANT PROTEIN EXPERTISE CENTER.
This collaboration between colleges and universities will mobilize all stakeholders wishing to develop their production, processing and marketing activities in the plant protein sector. The first step will be to draw up an action plan aligned with local needs in terms of scientific expertise and support for innovation in this highly promising market segment.
To implement this action plan, a transitional committee including stakeholders and potential users will be set up in autumn 2022. The committee’s mandate will be to conduct a detailed analysis of the Quebec ecosystem in the plant protein sector, in order to highlight its strengths and identify national and international partners to meet the sector’s challenges. At the same time, the main sources of funding will be listed to support the Centre’s operations and its research and innovation activities.
In the short term, the Centre d’expertise sur les protéines végétales aims to develop research partnerships with Quebec companies. The Center will also enable companies to work in partnership with other manufacturers on pre-competitive issues. The Centre d’expertise sur les protéines végétales will also enable us to maximize the use of research infrastructures and platforms available in all Quebec research organizations, and to forge collaborations on a Canadian and international scale.
“The implementation of this action plan leading to the establishment of a Center of Expertise on Plant Proteins is more than necessary. Whether it’s the growing consumer demand for plant-based protein products, or the goal of food self-sufficiency and reduced environmental impact, the creation of a co-creation space for plant-based protein products is more relevant than ever. Our hope is that this center will bridge the gap with Western Canada and become a national force in the field.”
Jean Lacroix, CEO, Cintech agroalimentaire
“The segment of food products based on plant and alternative proteins is growing rapidly. Many Quebec manufacturers, from large corporations to start-ups, need scientific expertise to ensure this food transition and continue to stand out through the development of innovative new products. INAF’s multi-disciplinary network of experts will be put to good use.
Renée Michaud, General Manager, INAF
“A number of INAF scientists have varied and complementary areas of expertise which they will be able to contribute to the new Center. This expertise includes the development of protein ingredients and the evaluation of their functionality, the formulation of foods enriched with plant proteins, and the study of consumer perception and acceptability of these emerging proteins.
Alain Doyen, INAF Scientific Director
