The governments of Canada and Manitoba are investing $270,000 in a pilot project to increase the use of pulse flours in the commercial bread-making industry.
“Canada is a world leader in pulse production and the Government of Canada is proud to support the ongoing research that contributes to this success,” said Federal Agriculture Minister Lawrence MacAulay. “Funding research to find new and innovative uses for pulse crops contributes to economic prosperity for farmers, while meeting the needs of today’s health conscious consumers, here and around the globe.”
Funding for this two-year project will be used to purchase and install specialized equipment, including a fermentation tank, at the Canadian International Grains Institute (Cigi) in Winnipeg. Warburtons, the largest bakery brand in the United Kingdom, and Cigi will use this equipment to research pulse-based bakery products including bread.
“Consumers are looking for healthier, more nutritious foods that taste great, and Manitoba-grown pulses can help meet this demand,” said Manitoba Agriculture Minister Ralph Eichler. “This research project is exciting because it will help identify new markets and opportunities for pulse growers, adding value to crops grown here at home.”
Pulses, which include beans, peas, chickpeas and lentils, have many nutritional benefits, making them a desirable ingredient. The project will help identify ways to improve the baking processes and flavour of breads made with them.
-News4 Staff-
