Canada Invests $1.9M in Project to Scale Plant-Based Whitefish Production

Canada's Ocean Supercluster has announced a $1.9 million initiative to scale the manufacturing of plant-based whitefish, led by Halifax-based startup Profillet. The project aims to commercialize a domestically produced alternative to conventional whitefish products, addressing overfishing and environmental degradation associated with wild-caught and farmed seafood. The initiative, which includes participation from Ardra Inc., Mara Renewables, and RONDO North America, is supported by the Ocean Supercluster with $750,000 in funding.

Profillet's plant-based fillet is designed to replicate the taste, texture, and nutritional profile of whitefish, using marine-derived ingredients and fermentation technology contributed by Ardra Inc. The project aims to meet the growing demand for seafood in a sustainable and cost-effective way, supporting Canada's broader goals to expand its ocean economy to $220 billion by 2035. Government officials see the project as aligning with national objectives in sustainability and food innovation, fostering cutting-edge solutions to strengthen Canada's position as a leader in the field.