STATEMENT ON THE 2021 UN FOOD SYSTEMS SUMMIT

“The UN Food Systems Summit has underscored many global challenges and opportunities. Specifically, a consistent desire to move to healthier, safer, more sustainable food systems.

“Canadian pulses are a key part of the solution to achieve this shift. Whether consumed in combination with other complementary plant-based proteins, blended with other plant and meat-based proteins in food product applications, or incorporated into feed rations, pulses are a unique solution provider that can serve a wide range of interests. The modern practices of Canadian growers, traders and exporters deliver a shelf-stable product that is not only nutritious, but sustainably grown, with an environmental impact that is traceable and quantified by sound science. This is the future of food – and to achieve more sustainable food systems, the world needs more Canada and more Canadian pulses.

“Local, national and global consumers, companies, policy makers and those in industries who support them place a focus not only on food security, safety and nutrition, but increasingly on the environmental footprint of food. To capture the value of these demand drivers, Canada must not only talk the talk, but walk the walk. We can do this by building on our reputation as a supplier of safe and healthy food and taking a leadership position to develop our capacity to measure and substantiate the environmental footprint of Canadian agri-food. We can outcompete on a global stage by committing to modernize regulations, implementing forward-thinking policies and putting in place incentives that encourage growth and investment in food production and processing here in Canada. And through our words and actions, we can underscore the important role free and unfettered trade plays in helping countries meet their respective food security goals.

“Canadian pulses can and will play a pivotal role in addressing some of world’s most complex challenges. In the coming weeks and months, Pulse Canada looks forward to actively engaging with the new Government and Parliamentarians of all stripes to discuss our vision for how Canada’s pulse industry can create jobs, drive economic growth, and improve our environment while putting healthier food on the plates of Canadians and consumers around the world.” - Corey Loessin, Chair

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