Harper Government Supports Pulse Industry

[Locutus]

July 3, 2015 – Saskatoon, Saskatchewan – Western Economic Diversification Canada

Today, the Honourable Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, on behalf of the Honourable Michelle Rempel, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support to Pulse Canada for expansion of the pulse industry.

Funding of $3.5 million, through the Western Diversification Program (WDP), enables the industry to increase pulse usage in Canada as well as increase exports to the United States. Pulse Canada will market the health and nutritional benefits of pulses to consumers, the processed food industry, and the food service sectors.

Pulse Canada represents growers, processors and exporters of Canadian pulse crops (peas, lentils, chickpeas, and beans) and its mandate is to contribute to the profitability of the Canadian pulse industry through programs designed to deliver innovative solutions that improve efficiency and increase value and to improve Canada’s competitive advantage in the international market place.

Quick Facts

• Canada is the world’s largest exporter of pulse crops and the largest producer and exporter of peas and lentils globally.
• The majority of Canadian pulse growers, processors and exporters are located in Western Canada.
• Pulses are a low fat, high fibre source of protein, and eating pulses can help manage health issues like diabetes and heart disease.
• The United Nations has declared 2016 as the International Year of Pulses (IYOP).

Quotes

“Our Government recognizes that pulses continue to be a key ingredient to our economic success, and we remain committed to securing Canada’s role as a leading exporter so that we can continue to create jobs and economic growth. By investing in trade, and expanding markets, we are helping to accomplish this while supporting Canadian producers and businesses as they expand.

- The Honourable Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food
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“Pulse Canada is very pleased to be partnering with the Government of Canada to promote pulses in North America. This campaign is important to Canadian pulse growers because we are producing food that consumers want and need – we just need to get the word out to them. Consumers are looking for healthy, nutritious foods, and they are also showing more interest in foods that are good for the environment. Pulses meet all of these criteria. They are a great part of a healthy cropping system for farmers and part of a healthy, nutritious diet for consumers. ”
- Lee Moats, Chair of the Board of Pulse Canada
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“Canada is the world’s largest exporter of pulses, and a leading pulse ingredient processor. A North American marketing campaign, in conjunction with global international Year of Pulses initiatives, will open new doors for Canadian companies. With the support of the Government of Canada, along with the support of companies like my company, AGT Foods, and Pulse Canada, we can share the message that pulses are delicious and nutritious, and that Canada is the place to get them. Encouraging consumers to embrace pulses for their health, nutrition and environmental benefits is nothing but good news for Canadian processors.”

- Murad Al-Katib, CEO, AGT Foods and Ingredients (TSX:AGT) and president of the Canadian Special Crops Association (CSCA)

Harper Government Supports Pulse Industry - Canada News Centre
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