The pulse industry is getting a big research boost from the federal government.
Federal Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay was in Saskatoon on Tuesday where he made a funding announcement to support growth in the pulse sector.
A research cluster will focus on improving new pulse crops and exploring the health benefits of pulses, while enabling universities and research institutions across the country to undertake new research activities.
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“It’s vital that we put the research dollars in play,” MacAulay said.
“Innovation is vital … you have to have the product the consumer wants and this is what this is all about.”
MacAulay said up to $11.1 million will go to the Saskatchewan Pulse Growers’ and Pulse Canada.
The industry is kicking in another $7.2 million, bringing the total investment to over $18 million.
An investment of $175,721 was also provided to Pulse Canada towards pulse innovation in the Chinese market.
Canadian pulse production was 7.1 million tonnes in 2017, with exports worth $3.4 billion to 126 countries.