The Canadian International Grains Institute can now focus on research and innovation, thanks to a $5 million investment from the federal government.
With loaves of bread behind him, agriculture minister Gerry Ritz announced the funding inside CIGI’s bakery lab in downtown Winnipeg.
The five year investment will support CIGI research.
“For example, the funding allows us to put a specific focus on the functional properties of various wheat varieties in our continuing effort to ensure customers are receiving the wheat gluten strength they require,” said Earl Geddes, CIGI chief executive officer. “And (acquire) a better understanding of the regional differences of varieties and classes of wheat, as well as to match funding from Pulse Canada and Saskatchewan Pulse Growers for new product development with pulse flours.”
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Rex Newkirk, CIGI director of research and business development, said the investment is significant because the institute has an annual budget of $8 million.
Previously, the federal government supported marketing efforts at CIGI. This investment is specifically earmarked for research.
“We’re pleased to have this funding for multi-faceted, innovation driven, commercial research to create new applications and high quality products from Canadian wheat, durum and pulses.”
