PIP Lethbridge Inc. is an ag-tech company that specializes in processing yellow peas. In 2024, it received a $215,000 Sustainable CAP grant through RDAR to assess the feasibility of a more advanced extraction method that preserves protein integrity while eliminating the bitter taste and undesirable textures commonly associated with plant proteins. Compared to existing processing technologies, PIP’s system enhanced process efficiency by 20%, uses less power and water, and reduces maintenance and cleaning time and costs.
PIP’s process innovations directly address the need to enhance the value of primary agricultural products by increasing value-added processing in Alberta. PIP’s processes substantially raise the value of peas from under $1.00/kg to over $8.00/kg.
In the next phase of this initiative, PIP will continue to scale its process and apply new technology to provide real-time processing data. This is expected to maximize protein recovery and minimize losses, increasing productivity and cost efficiencies.
Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, the Honourable Lawrence MacAulay, said: “We’re committed to helping producers add even more value to their operations. These investments in cutting-edge research will allow producers in Alberta to grow their businesses, so they can keep feeding the world while improving their bottom line.”
The Honourable RJ Sigurdson, Alberta Minister of Agriculture and Irrigation, said: “RDAR continues to provide critical investments to projects that are driving innovation and crop diversification that will positively impact Alberta's agriculture sector and the Alberta economy for generations. The PIP project is a prime example of the strong position Alberta is taking in attracting and supporting value-added processing that will be key to our food security and global trading relationships.”
Dr. Mark Redmond, CEO of RDAR, commented on today’s announcement: "Pea protein offers several health benefits for consumers, sustainable crop production benefits for farmers and economic benefits for Alberta. We are pleased to continue our funding in this area, as both this crop and the value-added markets are experiencing steady growth. Peas now have the opportunity to change their perception from being just a rotational crop that exports for animal feed, to a cash crop of choice for farmers.”
Christine Lewington, PIP CEO, added: “PIP’s innovative manufacturing process and global customer base opens new value chain possibilities for Canadian growers. Peas shift from a simple commodity to a highly sought after high value ingredient. To be competitive globally, it is critical to continually invest in and strengthen Alberta’s Ag-tech position through strategic and applicable R&D projects. Stakeholders and support funding partners, such as RDAR, have been key to PIP’s success, as we have decoded and continue to optimize the technology further.”
Further details of Phase One of the “Protein clarification with automation” project can be found here: rdar.ca/projects.
About RDAR
RDAR is a not-for-profit organization, mandated to target strategic investments in producer-led, results-driven agriculture research to power the profitability, productivity, competitiveness, and sustainability of agriculture in Alberta. RDAR's funding comes from the Government of Alberta and the Government of Canada through the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership. For more information, please visit: rdar.ca
About PIP International
PIP’s mission is to accelerate the Global Adoption of the most sustainable, best tasting and affordable protein. Combining proven disruptive technologies, PIP aims to be significant by helping heal our world through individual wellness that will be accessible to all. pip-international.com
About the Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership
The Sustainable Canadian Agricultural Partnership (Sustainable CAP) is a five-year, $3.5-billion investment by federal, provincial and territorial governments to strengthen competitiveness, innovation, and resiliency of the Canada’s agriculture, agri‐food and agri‐based products sector. This includes $1 billion in federal programs and activities and a $2.5-billion commitment that is cost-shared 60 per cent federally and 40 per cent provincially/territorially for programs that are designed and delivered by provinces and territories. alberta.ca
Media Contact:
For all enquiries, please contact:
Richard Hilton, Manager, Stakeholder Relations and Communications
richard.hilton@rdar.ca