Technology is always changing the food on our plates—and how that food is made, sourced, and delivered. Canada's most forward-thinking companies are harnessing the breakthroughs from foodtech innovators to rethink everything from dairy—and dairy alternative—product development to sustainable packaging and carbon neutral manufacturing.
Let's explore some of those trailblazers setting new standards for the F&B industry, and the innovation priorities currently shaping their work.
Agropur
As Canada’s largest dairy cooperative, Agropur continues to redefine what’s possible in dairy processing through constant innovation. They develop advanced ingredients and optimize production techniques to improve nutrition, efficiency, and sustainability of the dairy sector in Canada and across the globe.
Innovation Priorities:
- Advancing dairy ingredient formulations for improved functionality, texture, and nutritional benefits
- Novel enzyme technologies and bioprocessing techniques to enhance dairy processing efficiency
- Sustainable packaging and energy-efficient production methods to reduce environmental impact
Learn more about Agropur.
Daiya Foods
Daiya Foods creates dairy-free alternatives that deliver on both taste and functionality and are one of Canada’s biggest plant-based success stories. In many ways their plant-based cheeses have become the industry standard, thanks to their ability to replicate the melt, stretch, and creaminess of traditional dairy. By investing in ingredient technology and advanced food processing techniques, Daiya continues to advance the quality, nutrition, and accessibility of plant-based dairy alternatives.
Innovation Priorities:
- Next-generation fermentation and microbial protein solutions for plant-based dairy
- Enhancing ingredient formulations to optimize texture, meltability, and nutritional value
- High-efficiency food processing technologies to scale production sustainably
Learn more about Daiya Foods.
Earth’s Own Foods
Earth’s Own is a purpose-driven brand that advocates for plant-based diets as a solution to climate change and food system sustainability. Best known for their plant-based milks, they’ve also expanded into a broader range of dairy-free alternatives, including creamers, butter, and cream cheese. By sourcing 100% Canadian-grown oats and prioritizing responsible production and packaging practices, Earth’s Own has become a Canadian leader in sustainable food innovation.
Innovation Priorities:
- Optimizing plant-based milk extraction techniques and ingredient formulations to enhance quality, texture, and taste
- Carbon-neutral and zero-waste manufacturing processes
- Strengthening food system sustainability by supporting and funding plant-based entrepreneurs and regenerative agriculture practices
Learn more about Earth’s Own.
McCain Foods
McCain Foods’ claim to fame is being the world’s largest producer of French fries (responsible for one of every four fries in the world!), but the New Brunswick company is so much more than that. Across its globe-spanning operations, McCain Foods is revolutionizing food manufacturing: its embrace of new food tech is reflected in the company’s support for regeneratively farmed products and a tech-led approach to advancing zero-waste and resource-efficient operations.
Innovation Priorities:
- AI-driven quality control and process optimization in food manufacturing
- High-speed robotics and automation to enhance precision and energy efficiency
- Efficient freezing and storage technologies to reduce energy consumption
Learn more about McCain Foods.
Riverside Natural Foods
Riverside Natural Foods is the company behind healthy snack brands like Made Good and Good to Go. They focus on developing nutrient-rich, allergen-free products using high-quality ingredients, with sustainability always front-of-mind.
As a certified B Corp, 1% For the Planet Member, and Future-Fit Business, making planet and people-friendly foods is the foundation to all of Riverside’s innovation priorities—from electrifying manufacturing ovens to robust support for sustainable packaging advancements.
Innovation Priorities:
- Oven electrification to significantly reduce manufacturing greenhouse gas emissions
- Next-generation sustainable packaging solutions, including recyclable, bio-based, and compostable materials
- Targeting emissions reductions through sustainable ingredient sourcing and supply chain optimization
Learn more about Riverside Natural Foods.
Advancing the Future of Food Innovation
These companies are finding success by constantly adapting and fully embracing food innovation to improve their products and processes.
For startups and entrepreneurs building new solutions in foodtech, you can explore CFIN’s Resource Finder to connect with more food industry leaders who are eager to collaborate and drive innovation forward. Be sure to also optimize your YODL profile—this helps potential partners searching for specific foodtech solutions find you via the Resource Finder.
