Protein Industries Canada invests $6.7M in soy processing facility

Morrisburg — Protein Industries Canada has announced a new project with Alinova Canada, Marusan Ai, Earth’s Own Foods, and Flamaglo Foods to establish a pilot-scale soy processing facility in Ontario. The project aims to produce a new soy powder, primarily for the Japanese market.

Alinova Canada, a joint venture between DJ Hendrick International and Marusan Ai, will lead the commercialization of the soy powder. The facility will be built in Ontario, a key region for soy production, to help bring more soy processing back to Canada, adding value to the country’s soy crop, which is mostly exported for processing.

“Canada’s agriculture sector has a strong reputation for high-quality crops, and we can build on this by bringing the processing of those crops back home to Canadian soil. Value-added processing and whole-seed utilization here at home will secure our position as a leading supplier of high-value ingredients and food products, while providing families here in Canada, and around the world with a new selection of high-quality protein options,” Protein Industries Canada CFO, Kassandra Quayle said.

The $23.9 million project includes an investment of $6.7 million from Protein Industries Canada, with the remaining funds provided by the project partners. The goal is to develop and test soy-based products, including soymilk powder, for global markets.

“Exporting food-grade non-GMO whole soybeans from Eastern Ontario has been a long-standing tradition with rewards for producers and exporters alike. Now we have a chance to take that pride and reward to the next level — a made in Canada ingredient. We intend to build on our relationships with growers in Eastern Ontario, our soymilk partner in Japan and the two Canadian soyfood formulators joining on this initiative, to make this manufacturing company a reality for Morrisburg, and a contributor to our community well-being,” said Alinova Canada executive VP, David Hendrick.

“In Japan, we at Marusan Ai recognize the importance of plant protein for the well-being of global consumers. We predict the possibility of a global shortage. We have discussed this possibility with our Canadian partner, DJHII, and together we have a plan to mitigate this risk by working with Eastern Ontario non-GMO soybean growers, and two Canadian plant protein formulation partners. We believe that together with your reliable supply of Canadian soybeans, and our longstanding experience in food processing technology, we can manufacture a novel made in Canada soymilk powder ingredient and find many food product applications. We also recognize and support the contribution that this project can have for the Morrisburg community. We hope to meet many of you at our opening in early 2026,” said Alinova Canada, president Hiroyuki Inagaki.

The project aims to strengthen Canada’s position in the global soy market and support local economic development in Ontario, particularly the Morrisburg community.

The new facility is expected to be operational by early 2026.