Canada invests in artificial intelligence to boost quality of protein crops
In a strategic move to advance the plant-based value chain, key players across Canada’s agriculture sector are converging to introduce a new artificial intelligence technology aimed at enhancing the quality of protein crops and ingredients. The project, fueled by a $13 million investment, with $5.9 million from Protein Industries Canada and the remainder by partners, signifies a collaborative effort to boost both the agricultural and technological landscapes in Canada.
Groundbreaking $13 Million AI Project to Revolutionize Protein Crop Quality
Supported by Protein Industries Canada, this initiative sees companies such as Enns Bros., Crop Sentry, DL Seeds, and AGT Foods combining their expertise. They aim to refine technology that meets the dual needs of farmers and ingredient processors, ensuring a win-win for the growth and sustainability of Canada’s protein industry.
The François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, underlined the significance of AI in tackling complex challenges and creating tangible benefits nationwide. “Projects like this one show how Canadians are harnessing the power of AI to address complex issues and deliver real impact across Canada,” he remarked.
AI Technology to Foster Sustainable and High-Quality Plant-Based Production
Utilizing the IoT sensor system developed by Crop Sentry, the partnership will fine-tune in-field sensors for crops like peas and canola, empowering farmers with detailed phenotype data to make informed decisions. This initiative promises to improve crop quality and ensure a consistent supply of protein for processors, aligning with the increasing demand for eco-friendly and nutritious foods.
The initiative will enhance Canada’s food and ingredient sectors’ efficiency and sustainability. Bill Greuel, CEO of Protein Industries Canada, explained, “By focusing their initial efforts on in-field AI technology, our project partners are building on the established success of Canada’s agriculture industry.”
Strengthening Canada’s Agricultural Value Chain Through Technology
The project partners echo the enthusiasm for the role of AI in transforming agriculture. “We believe it is critical that front line producers are a key component of the value chain,” said Ray Bouchard, President and CEO of Enns Bros. Meanwhile, Crop Sentry’s Chief Strategy Officer David Hodge emphasized the collective vision and the advanced technologies aimed at empowering growers.
With an overarching goal to bring new tools and insights into plant development, the partnership is set to positively impact every facet of the value chain, from production to processing. Chris Anderson, General Manager of DL Seeds, and Murad Al-Katib, President and CEO of AGT Foods, highlighted the foundational role of technology in enhancing product quality for consumers and the market.
Protein Industries Canada’s AI Initiative Marks a New Era for Agriculture
As the first project announced under Protein Industries Canada’s artificial intelligence stream, it marks a substantial step in the adoption of AI in Canada’s economic sectors. This project, part of the Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy, complements the organization’s extensive investments in the plant-based food sector and is anticipated to drive sustainability and innovation in the protein industry.