March 04, 2011
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
The Saskatchewan food processing industry will soon have access to new technologies that will reduce production costs and increase the development of innovative food products for the changing marketplace, thanks to an investment from the Government of Canada.
An announcement was made today in Saskatoon by the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification Canada, to support the development of Saskatchewan's food processing industry. The Government of Canada is providing $800,000 to assist the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre Inc. (Food Centre) in purchasing new equipment for use in product and process development.
"Our Government is pleased to promote increased competitiveness and productivity in Saskatchewan's food industry," said Minister Yelich. "Access to this equipment will allow food processors to produce new products that will help create even more jobs in our communities."
The Food Centre will purchase new equipment which will assist food processors in reducing costs, increasing product quality, enhancing food safety and developing new product lines. The availability of new equipment and processing methods will lead to the development and commercialization of new food products for Saskatchewan food processors. There are almost 300 food processors in Saskatchewan, creating approximately $2.5 billion in annual sales.
"The Food Centre is extremely grateful for the Government of Canada's investment in Saskatchewan's food industry. This new funding will enable the Food Centre to expand its expertise through the purchase of new technologies. This project will assist food processors in discovering new possibilities in food development and exploring new market opportunities," said Muriel Garven, Chair of the Board of Directors for Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre Inc.
Western Economic Diversification Canada works with the provinces, industry associations and communities to promote the development and diversification of the western economy, coordinates federal economic activities in the West and advances the interests of western Canadians in national decision making.
For additional information, contact:
Lloyd Suchet
Office of the Minister
Western Economic Diversification
E-mail: Lloyd.Suchet@wd.gc.ca
Dan Prefontaine
President
Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre Inc.
Tel: (306) 933-7555
WD Toll-Free Number:1-888-338-WEST (9378)
Teletypewriter (TTY): 1-877-303-3388
WD Website: www.wd-deo.gc.ca.
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