Hensall Co-op part of new soybean research

Hensall Co-op is part of a consortium led by Protein Industries that is pursuing development of non-GMO edible soybeans that can be grown further north.

Protein Industries Canada is the leader and has received $2.4 million from the federal government. The consortium is investing $1.9 million.

“This project will expand soybean production across our country, helping to not only create new economic opportunities and a competitive edge for Canadian farmers and producers but also meet the increasing global demand for quality plant-based products,” Canadian Minister of Industry M(C)lanie Joly said in a news release.

The lead researcher is genomics firm NRGene Canada; the industry partners include plant genetics lab Pulse Genetics, Hensall Co-op and soy-based foods maker Yumasoy Foods.

Scientists will work to breed early-maturing, high-protein, non-GMO soybean varieties suited to Canada’s northern climates. These new varieties will be specifically bred for improved yield and better adaptation to environmental conditions, helping producers reduce the yield gap between GMO and non-GMO crops.