Director James Cameron announces investments in Saskatchewan ag sector

Oscar-winning film director and Canadian native James Cameron and his wife Suzy Amis Cameron announced the formation of Verdient Foods Inc. On September 18th, 2017, Verdient Foods will open a new pulse food processing facility in Vanscoy, Saskatchewan, near the province’s largest city Saskatoon. Once fully operational, the 160,000 metric-ton facility will become the largest organic pea protein fractionation facility in North America.

The province of Saskatchewan, with some of the healthiest soil in the world, has a lengthy history of fostering elite agricultural businesses and educational institutions that are at the forefront of plant-based protein solutions. The Camerons have entered into a four-year research contract with the non-profit Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre (“Food Centre”) and its president, Daniel Prefontaine, to develop value-added organic food products that will be produced by Canadian and global companies using ingredients from their Verdient Foods plant.

The Camerons are dedicated to working with Saskatchewan farmers in a mentorship program to provide a profitable structure to keep younger generations of Canadian farmers engaged in organic farming. James Cameron said, “We are working with Saskatchewan farmers through the Verdient Foods processing facility and the Food Centre to integrate food production with new value-added products.” Added Suzy Amis Cameron: “For years, we’ve been on a mission to help the world eat healthy food grown by farmers who have chosen to farm organically. Jim and I are thrilled to work with Saskatchewan experts at the Food Centre, the University of Saskatchewan, and the Whitecap Dakota First Nation; all of whom have long been supporters of the mission to bring healthy food to all.”

Verdient Foods Inc. is deeply indebted to the efforts of the Honourable Brad Wall, the Premier of Saskatchewan, and his ministers who have created the roadmap for how to do business in Saskatchewan.

“We want to welcome James Cameron and Suzy Amis Cameron to Saskatchewan, and express our deepest gratitude for their investment in Verdient Foods and their partnerships with the Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre, the Whitecap Dakota First Nation and its First Nation leader, Chief Darcy Bear,” Premier Wall said. “Saskatchewan agriculture is feeding the world while creating jobs and opportunity at home. The Camerons’ decision to move forward with this project in Saskatchewan is a tribute to the province’s grain producers, our growing food processing industry, and our world leading research community.”

Continuing with their efforts to align with Saskatchewan farmers, researchers and business leaders, the Camerons are pleased to announce their partnership in Verdient Foods Inc. with Greg and Olivia Yuel, of PIC Investment Group Inc. (PIC). Greg and Olivia’s dedication to Saskatchewan and their strong family values make them ideal investment partners. “PIC Investment Group Inc. is a family office located in Saskatchewan with operating companies and equity investments in many sectors,” Greg Yuel said. “Our long-term perspective matches our partner in this opportunity perfectly. Verdient Foods validates the 20-year effort of Saskatchewan’s blueprint for growth by adding value to our commodities. PIC is delighted to be a part of this future coming to reality.”

For more information, please visit Verdient Foods website.
Article and photo from Verdient news release.