The Centre connects researchers from the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences with the food and agriculture value chain by engaging in collaborative research and development activities.

Our Vision is: To be a national and global leader in food innovation, advancing sustainable and nutritious agri-food solutions through interdisciplinary research, cutting-edge technology and industry collaboration.

Our Mission is: Advancing innovation within the agri-food sector for improving food quality, human nutrition, sustainability and a circular bioeconomy. Integrating scientific excellence into industry-focused research and training programs, fostering innovation in food processing, human health, and sustainable agri-food systems.

Our Mandate is: Supporting the food and agriculture value chain by engaging in collaborative research & development (R&D) activities with the food industry and other relevant stakeholders by providing the following services:

• Pilot scale dry and wet milling and fractionation processing of agricultural food products to support increased sustainability of the agri-food system
• Pilot scale cooking extrusion for ready-to-eat (RTE) breakfast cereals, snacks and plant-based meat alternatives to create healthy and consumer-friendly food products
• Laboratory- and semi-pilot scale (>1 L <100 L) extraction and fractionation of food ingredients for improved utilization of agri-food products and a strong circular bioeconomy
• Investigating the effects of food products, extracts or specific nutrients on human nutrition and wellness
• Semi-pilot plant scale (>1 kg <100 kg) encapsulation, tableting and packaging of dry food or plant extracts that enhance human nutrition
• Fostering R&D innovation in food and nutrition through industry-university research partnerships, co-tenancies, and contract service agreements (CSA)
• Analytical chemical and biological profiling of edible and non-edible materials

Industry Advisory Board

• Steve Robbins, Richardson International Limited
• Linda Van Halder, Simplot
• Jennifer Marchand, Cargill Canada
• Julianne Curran, Pulse Canada
• Kelly Henderson, Avena Foods Ltd.
• Leon Zhou, Roquette
• Marcela Cota, Vitalus Nutrition

The Richardson Centre for Food Technology and Research has the following rental opportunities:

• Pilot plant space
• Commercial kitchen
• Laboratory space

See complete details on available facilities and equipment.