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Bringing new Canadian-grown pulse-based foods to market

Apr 2, 2026 | 12:17 PM

Protein Industries Canada announced a new project in partnership with AGT Foods and Sweet Nutrition, based in Saskatoon, Sask.   

The purpose is to create the next big thing in pulse-based ingredients and food products. The project will improve the functionality of pulse proteins, starches and fibers, while expanding production capacity and bringing affordable, nutritious products made from Canadian-grown crops to market.  

Through the project, AGT Foods and Sweet Nutrition will develop improved pulse ingredients from peas, lentils and faba beans that will be used in finished food products such as cereals, baking mixes and high-protein snacks.   

Protein Industries Canada CEO Tyler Groeneveld said the project is an example of how food production and value-added agriculture can unlock new markets for Canadian crops and create new economic value.  

“By improving the functionality of pulse-based ingredients and connecting them directly to consumer products, these Canadian companies are creating affordable, nutritious food options while strengthening Canada’s food security,” Groeneveld said.  

The goal is to create new processing and post-fractionation techniques, including heat-moisture treatment, blending and extrusion, to enhance ingredient performance and consistency. This work will support increased efficiency and throughput at AGT’s Regina extrusion facility while enabling Sweet Nutrition to expand and automate its baking and packaging operations to support a broader product portfolio, including single-serve, high-protein offerings.  

Casey Parker, Co-founder, President and CEO of Sweet Nutrition, said their new snack line Protein Munchables is built on the idea that high-protein snacks should taste great without compromise.   

“This partnership with AGT Foods gives us access to the next generation of Canadian pulse ingredients, and the investment from Protein Industries Canada is helping us scale our production in Saskatoon to meet growing demand. With this project, we’re expanding our manufacturing capabilities and broadening our product lineup to bring more delicious, nutritious options to Canadian consumers,” Parker said.  

A total of $3.9 million has been invested into the project, with Protein Industries Canada committing $1.4 million and the industry partners together providing the remainder.   

alice.mcfarlane@pattisonmedia.com