Canadian Food Business
May 27, 2024 – Exciting news for Canada’s food science sector! The Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology (CIFST) proudly announces a significant investment from the Government of Canada into the new Food Sustainability and Resilience Cluster. This strategic research cluster is set to revolutionize innovation in food science across the nation, thanks to support from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada’s Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) – AgriScience Program – Clusters Component, and collaboration with top industry partners.
With a federal investment of up to $3.8 million, bringing the combined federal and industry investment to $6.9 million over five years, this initiative will drive forward nine groundbreaking projects in partnership with public research institutions nationwide. This collaborative effort promises to enhance sustainability and resilience in Canada’s food systems, paving the way for a brighter, more innovative future in food science.
The Food Sustainability and Resilience Cluster aims to foster collaboration in three critical priority areas: energy reduction and efficiency, innovative production technologies, and sustainable practices. Each of the nine cluster research activities aligns with the AgriScience Program priority areas of Climate Change and Environment, Economic Growth and Development, and Sector Resilience and Societal Challenges.
“Through this project, the Canadian Institute of Food Science and Technology will lead important research focused on reducing food waste, strengthening our food systems, and making the sector more sustainable. By advancing food science and technology, we’re helping the sector find new and innovative ways to keep feeding Canadians, and the world,” said the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food.
“CIFST is immensely proud to be the driving force behind the Food Sustainability and Resilience Cluster over the next few years,” said Dr. Yvonne Yuan, President of the Institute. “We believe that the nine cluster activities, alongside CIFST’s programmatic initiatives, will significantly elevate the role of food science within Canada’s food system.”
For detailed information about the Food Sustainability and Resilience Cluster and the nine cluster activities, please visit this website: https://cifst.ca/food-science-cluster/
About CIFST
Founded in 1951, CIFST is the national association for food science professionals. The purpose of CIFST is to advocate and promote the quality, safety and wholesomeness of the food supply through the application of science and technology by linking food science professionals from industry, government and academia.
CIFST’s goals are:
• To provide a professional network for the exchange of scientific, educational and business ideas, information and knowledge.
• To be a respected voice on scientific and policy issues to the food and beverage sector.
• To promote the professional development and careers of CIFST members.
• To increase awareness of opportunities and careers in the food and beverage sector.
Media Contacts:
Constance Wrigley-Thomas, CAE
Director of Operations
Canadian Institute of Food Science & Technology
289-259-9623 (cell)
constance@cifst.ca
Heidi Loney
Executive Director
Canadian Institute of Food Science & Technology
905-331-5329 Ext. 4
heidi@cifst.ca
