Lethbridge, Alta. Brewery Finds New Life as Plant Protein Processor

The provincial government is investing more money in a new approach to food production that’s taking the industry by storm.

A $20 million plant protein factory that began life as a brewery is now open in the city of Lethbridge. Canadian agri-food company PIP International operates the business, which processes peas and tests new harvesting methods.

This company received $1 million from the UCP government under its Emerging Opportunities program to help build the facility.

Officials say the center will offer Canadian farmers, who are putting increasing amounts of time and effort into producing pulses, an opportunity to create new and higher-value products “closer to home.”

“The Canadian government’s investment in this innovative pilot plant will redefine plant-based protein for the region, support our economy and continue to position Canada as a global leader in sustainable production,” said Marie-Claude Bibeau, Federal Minister of Agriculture and Agrifood in a release.

Nate Horner, Alberta Minister for Agriculture, Forestry and Rural Development, says the installation of the plant will create jobs and promote economic diversity.

“With demand for plant-based foods increasing worldwide, investment in PIP’s pilot plant is part of a broader strategy to grow and diversify Alberta’s burgeoning food sector. PIP’s new pilot plant is a stepping stone to a larger investment that will create new jobs and help grow Alberta’s burgeoning vegetable protein sector,” he said.

This facility is just the first phase of agricultural investment in the Lethbridge area, officials say.

Construction of a $150 million yellow pea processing plant will begin later this year in Lethbridge.

When complete, it is expected to process approximately 126,000 tons of yellow peas, support more than $75 million in annual grower contracts and create 100 new jobs.