Calgary-based Phyto Organix Foods Inc. plans to build North America’s first net zero plant protein processing facility in Strathmore, Alta.
On May 24, Phyto Organix announced it had signed a letter of intent to purchase 15 acres of land in Strathmore from the Western Irrigation District to build a $225-million plant protein processing facility. The deal will mark the largest ever capital investment in Strathmore, according to a release.
“Our team has designed a net zero facility to produce food products that embody our core values of health, wellness and sustainability,” Chris Teal, founder, president and CEO of Phyto Organix, said in a statement. “We are energized to lead the plant protein industry in Alberta.”
Phyto has engaged Bird Construction and GHD Engineering to build the facility, which will recycle 75% of its process water and use industry-leading heat integration to reduce energy consumption, in addition to harnessing low-emission energy sources for power.
The facility will process 40,000 metric tonnes of yellow peas per year into soluble and insoluble protein isolates, processed fibre and starch, and high-quality dietary pea hull fibre. It is expected to employ 80 Albertans and contribute more than $120 million to Alberta’s GDP per year.
Phyto received $1 million over two years from the federal and provincial governments to help build the facility through the Canadian Agricultural Partnership.
“With demand for high-quality plant-based products increasing dramatically in recent years, Alberta’s government is pleased to support companies like Phyto Organix that will work with local producers, create jobs, and help grow Alberta’s economy,” said Nate Horner, Alberta’s minister of agriculture, forestry and rural economic development.
MLT Aikins is pleased to act for Phyto Organix on all its legal matters, and is thrilled to see the company make significant investments not only in a sustainable future, but Alberta’s economy.
Calgary lawyer Scott Exner sits on Phyto Organix’s board of directors and is a shareholder in the company. The other MLT Aikins team members who work with Phyto Organix include Deirdre Lanigan, Sheldon McDonald, Mark Mielke, John Dipple (now retired), Lorraine Pinsent, Scott Davidson, Kristal Allen, Robbie McLellan, Patricia Youn and Jean Torrens.
MLT Aikins serves as a trusted legal adviser to a wide variety of food and agriculture companies, providing legal advice tailored to the business and practical considerations of clients throughout Western Canada. Learn more about our Agriculture & Food practice group.