Ontario Opens First Soymilk Powder Plant

New Morrisburg facility strengthens processing capacity and supports farmers

Ontario is celebrating a major step forward in agri-food innovation with a nearly $24 million investment by Alinova Canada Inc. to build the country’s first non-GMO soymilk powder processing plant. The new facility, located in Morrisburg, will create 15 good-paying jobs and strengthen the province’s role as a leader in agricultural processing and growth. 

This investment is seen as an important move for Ontario’s economy. Leaders note that it reflects strong confidence in the province’s manufacturing strength and skilled workforce. The plant will bring key processing capacity to Ontario by onshoring production previously handled in Japan, supporting long-term growth in the province’s agri-food supply chain. 

Alinova Canada is a partnership between Japan’s second-largest soymilk producer, Marusan Ai, and Ontario-based David J Hendrick International Inc. The facility will use Ontario-grown soybeans to produce more than 1,200 metric tonnes of soymilk powder each year. This will support local farmers while helping Ontario expand its role as a global supplier of soy ingredients. 

To support the project, the Ontario government is providing $1.5 million through the Eastern Ontario Development Fund under the Regional Development Program. Since 2019, this program has helped businesses across the province invest in new equipment, technology, and workforce development. 

Local representatives say the investment will protect jobs, strengthen the regional economy, and build new opportunities for farmers. Industry leaders added that the project supports long-standing relationships with non-GMO soybean growers in Eastern Ontario and will help meet the rising global demand for plant-based protein ingredients. 

Government officials highlighted that the investment comes at a time when global trade challenges continue to affect businesses. By supporting local production, Ontario aims to build a more resilient and self-reliant economy. Since 2018, the province has attracted significant foreign investment and created one million new jobs, showing strong growth in the agri-food sector. 

This new soymilk powder plant marks an important milestone for Ontario, supporting farmers, boosting rural economies, and strengthening the province’s leadership in food processing and innovation. 

"This investment will support local farmers through the use of Ontario-grown soybeans that will reach markets around the world. Ontario is one of the largest food and beverage manufacturing regions in North America and our government will continue to make the strategic investments that ensure our province remains a leader in the sector," said Trevor Jones Minister of Agriculture, Food and Agribusiness. 

"As project leader and Board Director of Alinova Canada, I look forward to advancing the food processing sector in Eastern Ontario in partnership with Marusan Ai. Through this project, it is our full intention to ensure that Alinova Canada offers every opportunity possible to skilled workers and soy growers in the area as well as the Morrisburg community at large. We thank Minister Fedeli and the provincial government for their support and look forward to shining a light on this key industry," said David Hendrick Executive Vice President, David J Hendrick International Inc. 

Photo Credit: Alinova-Canada-logo