Federal Government Invests $5M In Plant-based Food Production

Government of Canada invests $5 million to boost plant-based food production. (CNW Group/Pacific Economic Development Canada)

RICHMOND — On Feb. 27, Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, announced $5 million in PacifiCan funding for Konscious Foods, a Richmond-based sustainable food producer making plant-based sushi and seafood products, to scale-up manufacturing and bring their products to global markets.

Konscious Foods’ line of frozen sushi meals incorporates Canadian-grown ingredients, including quinoa, tomatoes and carrots. With PacifiCan’s support, Konscious Foods will expand manufacturing and create new jobs. This investment will also try to help the company expand to new markets.

The investment aims to create more than 40 jobs in B.C. and grow exports. In addition to direct benefits for Konscious Foods, this investment is also expected to generate demand for the company’s Canadian suppliers, boost the local economy and build prosperity for British Columbians.

“Just like so many communities across Canada, Richmond is home to entrepreneurs who are developing the creative, sustainable products that the world demands. PacifiCan’s support means that businesses such as Konscious Foods can continue to grow locally, creating quality jobs here at home, feeding our communities, and competing on the global stage,” said Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business.

“As an innovative start up, we disrupted the sushi world with the first great tasting plant-based frozen sushi. Konscious Foods is a proud Canadian company, born right here in Vancouver. This investment has allowed us to grow quickly, win on a global stage and accelerate the next wave of innovation including plant-based Smoked Salm’n, Sno’Crab Cakes and Shr’mp. We are very grateful for the team at PacifiCan as our achievements would not be possible without your support,” said Michael Watt, President & COO, Konscious Foods Canada Inc.