By Martin White, Foodbev.com
Danone, Hain Celestial and other plant-based food companies operating in Canada have formed the Plant-Based Foods of Canada (PBFA) lobbying organisation to advance the interests of the plant-based foods sector in the country.
PFBA will work with governments to raise awareness of the emerging issues shaping this sector, in order to foster the growth of the sector and encourage innovation, in order to provide Canadian consumers with plant-based food choices which meet consumer expectations.
The core mission of the organisation is to “support the regulatory and market interests of plant food companies in Canada that make and market vegetarian products that are similar to traditional animal protein products.”
Founding members of the organisation include Danone, Hain Celestial, Pinnacle Foods, Daiya Foods, Earth’s Own Foods, GreenSpace Brands, Ripple Foods, Lightlife Foods, and The Field Roast Company.
PFBA is a division of Foods & Consumer Products of Canada (FCPC), which is the largest trade association representing food, beverage and consumer goods manufacturers in Canada.
Figures collected by research agency Nielsen show that sales of sales of meat and dairy alternatives in the country over the past year have increased 8% to more than CAD3 billion ($2.3 billion), and the organisation claims that this shows that this growing sector is being taken increasingly seriously by consumers and retailers.
David Johnston, vice-president and general manager of Pinnacle Foods Canada said: “Canadians want—and deserve—plant-based food choices that align with current food trends.
“Plant-based foods are an important source of protein for many Canadians, and it is important to us that they continue to be a nutritious, delicious, and exciting option for all.”
Beena Goldenberg, CEO of Hain Celestial Canada added: “The time has come for the plant-based food industry to build upon its collective voice within Canada.
“In the next five to 10 years, we are going to see rapid growth in the interest and consumption of plant-based foods. It’s happening already.
“As industry continues to move into the mainstream, it’s critical that it has a voice to accurately represent it and help shape the direction it takes for the benefit of all Canadians.”