Canadian soybean farmers are set to benefit from a new $4.3 million breeding initiative aimed at developing early-maturing, high-yield, and high-protein non-GMO soybean varieties. The program seeks to enhance farm-level profitability while positioning Canada to meet growing global demand for plant-based protein.
Unlike conventional soybeans, non-GMO and Identity Preserved (IP) soybeans are valued not only for yield but also for protein content, which is increasingly sought after by domestic and international buyers. By producing varieties that deliver both high yields and elevated protein, Canadian farmers can access premium markets and capture additional value per bushel.
Launched in June 2025, the three-year program focuses on soybean varieties suited for Canada’s northern climates, including Manitoba and northern Ontario. The project aims to combine superior disease resistance, particularly against soybean cyst nematode (SCN), with consistent performance across diverse growing conditions.
Masood Rizvi, general manager of NRGene Canada, emphasized the program’s goal to future-proof Canada’s soybean exports. He highlighted that the breeding lines will be designed to compete with GMO varieties on yield while offering added protein characteristics. “We want to develop new soybean genetic lines that can compete on yield and disease resistance, with value-added protein characteristics,” Rizvi said.
The program is funded with 45 percent support from Protein Industries Canada, while four industry partners—NRGene Canada, Pulse Genetics, Hensall Co-op, and Yumasoy Foods Ltd.—provide the remaining 55 percent. After the breeding phase concludes in March 2028, the commercialization and scaling-up of production will begin.
Lisa Campbell, senior director of programs with Protein Industries Canada, stressed the potential impact for Canadian growers: “This investment keeps our farmers competitive in the global market, while also driving new economic opportunities for both farmers and food processors.” Specialty markets, particularly in Japan, Korea, and Southeast Asia, are seen as key targets for these high-protein, non-GMO soybeans.
Yumasoy Foods Ltd., based in British Columbia, will test the new lines for domestic food production, exploring opportunities to create nutritious soy food products and strengthen the Canadian soy value chain. The initiative is expected to increase both on-farm value and opportunities for downstream processors, potentially generating new jobs and expanding the domestic market for soy-based foods.
“This investment marks a pivotal moment for Canada’s non-GMO soybean sector,” Rizvi said. “Merging advanced genomics with farmer-focused breeding allows us to develop food-grade varieties that meet global demand, secure premium markets, and increase value for Canadian growers from southern Ontario to northern Manitoba.”
By focusing on protein as well as yield, the program aims to reward farmers for producing high-quality soybeans and reinforce Canada’s position as a trusted supplier of non-GMO, high-protein soy on the global stage.
