PIP Lethbridge Inc., an agricultural technology company specializing in yellow pea processing, is making significant strides in protein extraction. In 2024, the company received a $215,000 Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) grant through Results Driven Agriculture Research (RDAR) to explore a more advanced extraction method. This innovative approach aims to maintain protein integrity while eliminating the bitter taste and undesirable textures often associated with plant-based proteins.
Compared to conventional processing technologies, PIP’s system improves efficiency by 20%, consuming less power and water while also reducing maintenance time and costs. These advancements contribute to Alberta’s growing value-added agriculture sector, significantly increasing the market value of peas from under $1.00/kg to over $8.00/kg.
The next phase of the initiative will focus on scaling the technology and integrating real-time data monitoring to optimize protein recovery and minimize losses. This step is expected to enhance productivity and cost-effectiveness, reinforcing Alberta’s role in innovative agri-food processing.
Government and industry leaders have emphasized the importance of investments in cutting-edge research and value-added processing. They highlight the potential of pea protein to support sustainability, improve economic opportunities for farmers, and strengthen Alberta’s position in global ag-tech markets.
By refining its manufacturing process and expanding its global customer base, PIP Lethbridge is positioning Canadian-grown peas as a premium ingredient in the plant-based protein industry. The company’s ongoing innovation underscores the importance of strategic research and development in ensuring long-term competitiveness in agricultural technology.
For more details on Phase One of the “Protein Clarification with Automation” project, visit rdar.ca/projects.
