Oct. 3, 2024
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Pulse Immersion Days: Showcasing Canada's Pulse Industry
Pulse Immersion Days brought food manufacturers to every step along the Canadian pulse industry supply chain.
Aug. 15, 2024
This July, 19 representatives from the consumer-packaged food sector joined Canadian processors and farmers in Saskatoon for Pulse Canada’s second ever “Pulse Immersion Days” - a three-day curated program which highlights the full spectrum of Canada’s pulse ecosystem from farm to fork.
Pulse Immersion Days attracted a diverse group of food companies actively engaged in pulse innovation. Participants represented a wide array of applications, including beverages, snacks, baked goods, pasta, and alternative meat and dairy products. This broad representation underscored the growing interest in pulses beyond traditional uses. Companies were keen to understand not only the functionality and ingredient performance but also the complete narrative surrounding pulses— from farm origins to processing techniques.
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Event Content
The event featured a series of in-depth activities designed to bridge gaps between different players along the supply chain. Participants explored pulse breeding, production, sustainability advances, supply chain and processing capacity and scientific and technical expertise in nutrition, functionality and more - moving beyond the conventional view of pulses as mere protein ingredients. Pulse processors also had the unique opportunity to position themselves within the context of Canada’s pulse industry ecosystem, with significant opportunities to network and gain practical insights from food manufacturers. This holistic approach fostered a mutual understanding and appreciation among all participants.
A recurring theme throughout the event was sustainability with discussions centring on what it means to be truly sustainable in the food industry. Attendees observed firsthand the on-farm practices that contribute to sustainable agriculture, like pulses in crop rotations and the adoption of no-till agriculture and had the chance to network directly with growers. Companies also inquired about regenerative agriculture, and learned how pulse production and Western Canadian farm practices align with the soil health, diversification and systems thinking principles of regenerative agriculture. This type of connection can help pulse growers leverage the sustainability practices they employ on their farm into a higher return when selling their crops.
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The event also allowed Pulse Canada to effectively showcase Canada's leadership in value-added processing and food research innovation. Pulse Immersion Days featured tours of the University of Saskatchewan’s Department of Food and Bioproduct Science, Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre, and the Canadian Light Source, emphasizing Saskatchewan's and Canada’s global standing as scientific leaders in pulse ingredient development. This aspect of the program reinforced the reputation of Canadian expertise in advanced pulse ingredient solutions, featuring demonstrations of 3D printed plant-based protein, extruded snacks and meat alternatives, plant-based emulsions for fat replacement or barista applications, and edible films and casings.
Culinary innovating was highlighted throughout the event with engaging demonstrations. Chef Christine from iHeartFood Consulting showcased creative pulse ingredient-based prototypes, while Chef James Bickmore-Hutt provided lunch through a culinary demonstration that inspired attendees with new ideas for incorporating whole pulses into their products.
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Takeaways
One of the key takeaways from Pulse Immersion Days was the integration of various sectors within the Canadian pulse industry. The event illustrated how farmers, processors, breeders, researchers, and government bodies—both locally and globally—work to grow the industry. With support and presence from key organizations in the industry including Saskatchewan Pulse Growers, the Canadian Pulse and Special Crops Trade Association, Protein Industries Canada, and the federal and provincial governments, the event showcased the collaborative nature and active investment that sets Canada’s pulse sector apart.
Ongoing engagement opportunities have already emerged after the event through requests for additional resources and multiple companies expressing interest in Pulse Canada’s Science and Technical Industry Program (STIP), a collaborative initiative for industry to design and support pre-competitive research and technical projects on common areas of interest such as flavor mitigation. STIP represents a valuable tool for advancing knowledge and supporting the growth of the value-added pulse industry. This interest signals a commitment to furthering innovation and addressing technical challenges in pulse utilization.
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Pulse Immersion Days delivered a program that helped attendees better understand the vibrancy and potential of the pulse industry. By fostering collaboration, showcasing Canadian leadership, and emphasizing sustainability, Pulse Canada enabled industry members to create new connections that will help drive new uses and more demand for Canadian pulse crops. The insights gained and connections made during this event are expected to drive continued innovation and growth within the pulse sector, benefiting both industry professionals and consumers alike.
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Pulse Canada is the national association of growers, traders and processors of Canadian pulses, also known as lentils, dry peas, beans and chickpeas. Pulses are an essential part of a healthy and sustainable diet. Pulses and pulse ingredients can help food manufacturers improve the nutritional and functional quality of food products.
