New protein partnership launched
Protein Industries Canada, GrainFrac, Tomtene Seed Farm and Ripple Foods are investing $4.3 million into a project aimed at leading to new, high-protein, pulse-based ingredients for the non-dairy beverage market.
GrainFrac, Tomtene Seed Farm and Ripple Foods are partnering to develop and utilize specialized dry processing technology using pulses.
Starches and proteins will be separated to extract as much protein as possible into concentrates and isolates.
These ingredients will then be tested in several new beverage formulations, in response to the rising demand for plant-based dairy-alternative beverages.
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Initial testing showed pea flour processed using the technology had a protein content almost nine percent higher than that processed using a pin-milled method.
The ingredients shown to have the highest protein content will be used in Ripple Foods’ formulations, as well as marketed to other processors and manufacturers outside of the partnership following the completion of the project.
Lethbridge County seeks bursary applications
Lethbridge County is accepting applications for its second-annual bursary program until June 1.
Two aspiring post-secondary students residing in Lethbridge County will receive financial assistance of $1,000 each for their first year of studies.
The applicant is required to have attended school within the county’s municipal borders, which includes schools in Lethbridge, Picture Butte, Coaldale, Coalhurst, and Nobleford.
Consideration will be given to applicants based on academic standing and good citizenship demonstrated through community participation.
Eligibility requirements and applications are available at lethcounty.ca/p/bursary-program.
Trumpeter swan spotters wanted
The Waterton Biosphere Reserve Association has launched the new trumpeter swan project and is looking for volunteer birders to help conduct roadside swan surveys.
Surveys usually occur from mid-March to April 30.
The organization wants a better understanding of what water bodies the swans use, the number of swans on those wetlands, as well as helping landowners understand how to best support the species and the healthy wetland habitat it requires.
Trumpeter swan populations have rebounded from a historic low of 130 wild swans in North America in the early 1900s to more than 63,000 in the most recent count.
The breeding subpopulation in southwestern Alberta is considered to be only stable, at best, and continued use of known breeding water bodies is critical to maintain it.
Contact swans@watertonbiosphere.com or 403-563-0058 to discuss locations and possibly arrange a visit a Waterton Biosphere Reserve conservation technician.
Celebrating Women in Ag honours B.C. rancher
Linda Allison, a fourth generation rancher from Princeton, B.C., is the 2020 BMO Celebrating Women in Agriculture Honouree.
The program recognizes the outstanding achievement of women in the agriculture industry.
Allison is a strong advocate of agriculture and long-time leader in the British Columbia cattle industry.
She is a director at Canada Beef, spent nine terms with B.C. Cattlemen’s Association and was the chair of the Canadian Beef Cattle Research, Marketing Development and Promotion Agency.
She has also been involved with the Southern Interior Stockman’s Association and B.C. Agriculture Council’s agriculture environment committee.
