Food waste pervades every level of the food value chain. It is a complex problem that requires diverse, multifaceted, and innovative solutions. Fortunately, many CFIN member companies are building those solutions through cutting-edge biotech, decentralized composting systems, precision fermentation, custom software applications, and beyond.
To highlight the exceptional diversity of Canadian-made food waste and upcycling solutions, here are some of the innovators that are helping other food businesses find operational efficiencies, discover new revenue streams, and develop healthier and more sustainable products—all while making food waste a thing of the past.
Knead Tech
Knead Tech has developed a comprehensive digital platform that revolutionizes food rescue operations. Their software optimizes surplus food redistribution, making it easier for organizations to repurpose excess inventory from restaurants and retailers to help feed people rather than landfills.
Key Food Waste Solutions:
- Automated surplus food management system maximizes the efficiency of food rescue organizations
- Real-time tracking and impact reporting
- Streamlined compliance with food safety regulations
- Scalable platform that grows with organizational needs
Learn more about Knead Tech.
Liven Proteins
Liven Proteins is transforming agricultural side streams into high-performance protein ingredients through synthetic biology and precision fermentation. Their technology creates customized proteins that solve specific functionality challenges in plant-based foods.
Key Food Waste Solutions:
- Custom protein ingredients that enhance texture and flavour
- Clean-label solutions for plant-based products
- Creating new revenue streams for farmers and manufacturers by upcycling of agricultural byproducts into valuable ingredients
Learn more about Liven Proteins.
RFINE Biomass Solutions
RFINE has revolutionized the coffee industry's approach to waste management with their on-site processing technology. Their patented system transforms spent coffee grounds into valuable food-grade ingredients, creating new revenue streams for foodservice operators while eliminating waste disposal costs.
Key Food Waste Solutions:
- On-site waste processing technology that integrates seamlessly with existing cafe or restaurant operations
- Production of shelf-stable, nutrient-dense upcycled ingredients for food products
- Reduction in waste management costs and GHG emissions
Learn more about RFINE.
Tait Laboratories
Tait Laboratories converts citrus peel waste into powerful prebiotics via its groundbreaking extraction technology. Their scientifically validated process helps juice manufacturers and food processors turn a disposal expense into a high-value health ingredient.
Key Food Waste Solutions:
- Upcycling premium citrus processing byproducts into scientifically validated prebiotic ingredients
- Sustainable, clean-label ingredient for functional food product developers
- Waste reduction option for juice and canning operations
Learn more about Tait Laboratories.
Food Cycle Science
Food Cycle Science has developed a suite of food waste processing systems that help municipalities, businesses, and households easily and sustainably manage organic waste efficiently while creating valuable soil amendments.
Key Food Waste Solutions:
- Compact, on-site waste processing equipment
- Reduction in waste collection frequency and costs
- Rapid conversion of food waste into nutrient-rich soil amendment
- Odorless, space-efficient food waste management solution
Learn more about Food Cycle Science here and in the video below.
