The new industry organization is aimed at helping support the regulatory and market interests of plant food companies in Canada that make and market vegetarian products that are similar to traditional animal protein products.
Focusing on food trends
Plant-Based Foods will work with governments and leading stakeholders to bring awareness and action to the emerging issues shaping this sector.
That includes fostering a modernized regulatory environment that promotes innovation and growth within plant-based foods to provide Canadian consumers with plant-based food choices that are concurrent within contemporary trends.
"Canadians want—and deserve—plant-based food choices that align with current food trends," said David Johnston, vice president and general manager of Pinnacle Foods Canada.
"Plant-based foods are an important source of protein for many Canadians, and it is important to us that they continue to be a nutritious, delicious, and exciting option for all."
Source of protein
Plant-Based Foods of Canada is comprised of food companies that make and market plant-based products that are part of a combination of, or are the main source of, proteins by a growing number of Canadians.
"The time has come for the plant-based food industry to build upon its collective voice within Canada," said Beena Goldenberg, CEO of Hain Celestial Canada.
"In the next five to 10 years, we are going to see rapid growth in the interest and consumption of plant-based foods. It's happening already. As industry continues to move into the mainstream, it's critical that it has a voice to accurately represent it and help shape the direction it takes for the benefit of all Canadians."
Founding members
Consumer notions of what constitutes a good protein source are expanding to include a wider variety of plant-based protein ingredients. Moreover, the desire for health benefits along with variety in the diet, compatibility with vegetarian and vegan lifestyles and concerns about sustainability among the general population are putting the spotlight on plant proteins.
Founding members of Plant-Based Foods of Canada include: Daiya Foods, Danone, Earth's Own Foods, GreenSpace Brands, Hain Celestial, Pinnacle Foods, Ripple Foods, Lightlife Foods, and The Field Roast Company.
Recent Nielsen data shows an 8% increase in sales of meat and dairy alternatives over the past year, to more than C$3bn (US$2.3bn).
Government funding
Plant-Based Foods of Canada is a division of Foods & Consumer Products of Canada (FCPC) the largest trade association representing food, beverage and consumer goods manufacturers in Canada. The connection to FCPC enables members to leverage the expertise of FCPC on public policy and regulatory issues.
Earlier this year, the government of Canada announced an investment of approximately C$150m (US$115m) in the country's plant protein industry through its C$950m (US$730m) Supercluster Initiative.