IN THIS ISSUE: CIGI’s 1st accredited grain marketing program/Durum workshop update INSTITUTE IMAGES April 2005

CIGI pulse facility open for business INSIDE INSTITUTE IMAGES Executive Director’s Message Executive Director’s 2 Message Review provides timely input

In 2004 CIGI initiated its first independent review of the CIGI News 3 programs, technical services and publications it offers to international and domestic industry members. It was a timely opportunity to gather one-on-one input from individuals and organizations that have a long history with CIGI and others whose 6 Profile relationships with us are more recent or have yet to be established. The results of the review, which was conducted by Greg Arason, who is well known to many in the industry here in Canada and overseas, are both reassuring and a call to 9 Programs action. Without exception, those interviewed by Greg confirmed that CIGI has a positive image and there is a strong belief that our programs and services have been beneficial to Canada’s grain industry and for customers using Canadian grain and grain products. We Feature are also unique in the eyes of many. In his final report, Greg states that very few, if any, 14 could identify an organization from a competitor country that has the positive reputation or the ability to provide services equivalent to those delivered by CIGI.

16 Technology As positive as those statements are we don’t take them for granted. Many of those interviewed also spoke candidly about the kinds of initiatives CIGI could be undertaking to better serve the industry now and into the future: new programs to suit changing Industry News needs, a strategy to expand the use of our pilot facilities, a greater presence in other 18 regions of the country, particularly Eastern Canada. These are just a few of the ideas brought forward in the review, together with the message that we must not lose sight of Participant the core values and commitment to excellence that got us to where we are today. 23 Updates Where do we go from here? The new year has already brought with it some new developments with the official opening of our Pulse Processing and Specialty Milling Institute Images is published by the Facility and the delivery of our first ever accredited grain marketing program for financial Canadian International Grains Institute. professionals, both of which are featured in this issue of Institute Images. Editor Heather Johnson There is much to be proud of and still much more to accomplish. We look forward to Contributing Writers Ellen Goodman working with our industry partners and customers as we provide programs and services Heather Johnson Tammy Lowdon that continue to distinguish Canada as a country that is second to none in the production of quality field crops used in markets around the world. Design and Layout Warren Alejandro-Yarema

Photography Raelene Eger Lee Huscroft Tammy Lowdon Jeff Pruden

Inquiries and submissions may be directed to the attention of:

Institute Images Canadian International Grains Institute 1000-303 Main Street Barry W. Senft Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada R3C 3G7 Phone (204) 983-5344 Executive Director Fax (204) 983-2642 E-mail [email protected]

Visit our website at:

www.cigi.ca C I G I N E W S

CIGI Opens New Pulse Processing and Specialty Milling Facility

The new year launched a new chapter in CIGI’s efforts to promote Canada’s field crops and their products with the official opening of a Pulse Processing and Specialty Milling Facility on January 21.

Designed to support the marketing efforts of the Canadian pulse industry, the facility will be used for the testing of peas, beans, lentils and chickpeas to determine their processing and end-use characteristics. It will also provide training opportunities and technical information for A ribbon cutting marked the official opening of CIGI’s customers and be a resource Pulse Processing and Specialty Milling Facility. From on collaborative projects with left to right: Dr. Linda Malcolmson, CIGI; Brent DePape, Western Economic Diversification; Lloyd Canadian researchers and Affleck, Pulse Canada Board of Directors; Art Macklin, domestic and international CIGI Board of Directors; Chris Hamblin, Canadian customers. Grain Commission; and Barry Senft, CIGI.

“We will be able to offer technical help be evaluated on both a pilot scale to to customers and support the efforts of reflect commercial processes and on a Canadian plant breeders by providing laboratory scale for smaller quantities them with information on new where the effects of processing cultivars,” says Dr. Linda Malcolmson, conditions on end-quality can be Director of Special Crops, Oilseeds and studied. Desi chickpeas, lentils, peas Ashok Sarkar (left), CIGI Head of Milling and Pasta Technology, shows Dr. Ning Pulses at CIGI. “As an added value, and beans will also be ground into Wang, CGC Research Scientist, yellow individual companies will be able flour for testing in specialty end peas split by the new equipment. to access the facilities and technical products (for example, bean paste expertise to explore specific business filling for steam buns and cakes, fine we are looking forward to working opportunities.” chickpea flour for snack foods, and with domestic processors to assist course chickpea flour to produce sweet us in developing our processing The pulse facility is located adjacent goods). capabilities.” to CIGI’s pilot flour mill and will allow for the de-hulling and splitting “Our goal is to process pulses the same Contributors to the new facility of pulses which can then be tested way it’s being done commercially,” included Alberta Pulse Growers, for recovery, colour, water hydration says Linda. “We are pleased the pulse Government of Alberta, Agriculture and cooking properties. Pulses will industry has partnered with us and Continued on next page

Institute Images / April 2005 3 C I G I N E W S

Pulse Processing The new facility supports the and Specialty Milling Canadian pulse industry through Equipment the testing of peas, beans, lentils and chickpeas for processing and CIGI’s Pulse Processing and end-use characteristics. Specialty Milling Facility was designed for versatility in the scale of processing that can be undertaken. Pilot-scale equipment dehulls and splits pulses, allowing for minimum breakage. Laboratory equipment processes small quantities for research purposes while the milling equipment further processes pulses into flour.

Pilot Processing

Buhler pilot-scale equipment has a capacity of 100-200 kilograms/hour and consists of: •Grader and Food Council (Alberta), •Hopper Canadian Grain Commission, Paul Ebbinghaus, CIGI Technician, discusses •Feeder Manitoba Pulse Growers, a display of various dehulled and split pulses •Magnet Saskatchewan Pulse Growers, with Lasby Lowes, Manager of the Marketing •Dehuller and splitter Pulse Canada, Western Economic and Farm Business Management Branch, •Aspiration channel Diversification, and CIGI. Government of Manitoba. •Intermediate separator •Pneumatic air handling The official opening was attended system by approximately 60 guests from “The pulse facility builds on the industry, government, universities successes CIGI has experienced and media. The event featured in our other technology areas in Laboratory Processing speeches by CIGI representatives, milling, baking, pasta, and noodles funders, and a representative and steamed breads,” Barry said. “It Small-scale equipment has a from Buhler Inc.—manufacturer reflects a planned approach to utilize capacity of 3-5 kilograms per batch of the pilot mill equipment—who the expertise gained through these and includes: presented a congratulatory gift to experiences and expand our efforts •SK Engineering Laboratory mark the occasion. The speeches into other commodities. This facility Equipment were followed by a ribbon cutting will operate in collaboration with our - Pitting Machine and reception that offered a number partners to support the Canadian - Heating unit of food items produced from pulses. pulse industry.” - Tempering bin A display also showcased a number - Sheller of commercial pulse products as Art Macklin, Chairman of the CIGI - Husk aspirator well as processed pulse products Board of Directors, called the facility •Schule Verticle Shelling and from the pilot and laboratory scale a significant addition to CIGI’s ability Pearling Machine equipment. to serve the Canadian agriculture industry. “As CIGI enters its 33rd At the opening Barry Senft, CIGI’s year, we anticipate an exciting future, Milling Executive Director, provided working closely with all our partners an overview of the facility’s in promoting Canada and Canadian •Hammer Mill equipment, emphasizing its ability field crops as the best in the world.” •Stone Mill to optimize processing conditions and demonstrate the commercial Speaking on behalf of the pulse processing quality of Canadian industry, Lloyd Affleck, Vice- pulses to visitors from potential and existing customer countries. Continued on next page 4 Institute Images / April 2005 C I G I N E W S

Canada develop a strategy Given the increasing interest and for new uses for pulses demand for pulses worldwide, the and the organization launch of the facility is well-timed. looks forward to being an A combination of factors are driving important partner with the demand for pulses including CIGI. increasingly health conscious consumers and population growth Brent DePape, Senior in some regions of the world that Policy Analyst with is outpacing the capacity of local Western Economic producers. On average 70 percent Diversification Canada, of Canada’s pulses are exported. a department of the During the last five years Canadian federal government, said pulses have been exported to over 150 the new facility provides nations (see Primer on Pulses on page an innovative edge in 8). developing new products, The facility opening featured a display of international food processes and markets “The pulse industry is an important products made from pulses. for Canadian agriculture. industry for Canada,” says Chris “That is why Western Hamblin, Chief Commissioner of the Chairman of Pulse Canada’s Board Economic Diversification is pleased Canadian Grain Commission. “It is of Directors and Board Member with to support this industry and CIGI growing and I think this facility is Saskatchewan Pulse Growers, said the through our funding contribution to going to help it grow even more and new pulse facility is key to the future this state-of-the-art facility. CIGI has an continue to prosper into the future.” of Pulse Canada. “This will strengthen outstanding record of applied research our ability to educate and support our and development and a well-deserved For more information on CIGI’s Pulse customer base. It will also help our reputation for taking new ideas and Processing and Specialty Milling Facility breeders and our research community innovations and transforming them please contact Dr. Linda Malcolmson at meet future needs.” He said work in into commercial opportunities for (204) 983-8584 or [email protected] the new facility may also help Pulse Canadians.”

Pulse Processing and Specialty Milling Facility Highlights

Staff •Linda Malcolmson, Ph.D. Customer Support Director of Special Crops, Oilseeds and Pulses •Provide technical information and assistance •Ashok Sarkar, B.Sc., Dipl. Milling Technology to customers. Head, Milling and Pasta Technology •Initiate and maintain information exchange with •Myl Subramaniam, B.Sc. (Eng.), Dipl. Milling domestic and international customers. Technology, Technical Specialist, Milling •Coordinate marketing testing with customers. •Frank Bergen, Technician •Participate in international technical missions. •Paul Ebbinghaus, Technician •Perform pulse processing and specialty milling services for customers and industry organizations.

Key Activities Applied Research Educational Activities •Evaluate the processing properties and commercial •Develop and deliver specialized pulse viability of Canadian pulses. processing and specialty milling programs •Participate in the evaluation of new pulse varieties. for customers. •Conduct comparative quality evaluations of •Demonstrate the processing characteristics of competing products. Canadian pulses. •Collaborate on projects with researchers and •Increase awareness of the merits of Canadian pulses. international and domestic customers.

Institute Images / April 2005 5 PROFILE

As a city kid growing up in the A Passion west end of Winnipeg, Greg Cherewyk never imagined his career path would one day be lined with peas, beans, chickpeas and lentils. But today, working as Pulse Canada’s Director of Programs, Greg says without hesitation that he’s right where he for Pulses wants to be.

Thoughts of a future in agriculture were about as far away from his He soon found himself at the marketing course through the childhood reality as the vast distance University of Manitoba immersed commerce department,” says Greg. separating his urban home from in classes in organic chemistry, the nearest farm in rural Manitoba. biochemistry and microbiology plus While he may have “stumbled” into “When I was growing up it wasn’t all of the lab work that went with agriculture, once he’d discovered an area of interest that came to mind. them. “Those were tough years to get his niche Greg wasted little time Never in a million years could I have through. I was trying to look for a finding his stride and developing the envisioned that I’d be working in this light at the end of the tunnel because knowledge and industry contacts field but now I can’t imagine myself I wasn’t happy being in the lab. It just he would need to set foot in the real being anywhere else.” wasn’t my place even though people world. “I had the obvious problem of kept saying it would get better.” being a ‘metro-aggie’—someone from So what planted the seed the city who didn’t have that would ultimately any agricultural experience, lead him to a multi- or as they would say, faceted role where he “This is an industry that ‘have his feet dirty’.” As feels at home talking feed he continued with his peas with customers in is always challenging, studies, he set about to China and meeting with always interesting and change that fact, first taking domestic pulse producers a short-term position as a from Alberta through to always forcing you to communications advisor Ontario? As Greg explains with the Manitoba Rural it, the path that eventually be creative.” Adaptation Council. paved his way to the pulse Contacts there pointed industry initially took a him in the direction of number of twists and turns. Gordon Bacon, Chief Executive Officer of a newly formed “I guess you could say I stumbled into Where he did feel at home was in organization called Pulse Canada. agriculture. I had started university a class in agricultural economics at 17 and at that age I was still trying that he was taking with the late Dr. In 1998 Greg landed a summer job to figure out exactly where I wanted Darryl Kraft. “I just fell in love with with Pulse Canada as a market analyst to be. I finished my degree in arts but economics and world trade and it and so began his introduction to the I knew I needed to look beyond that was at that point I knew what I really domestic and international pulse so I started talking to different people wanted to do was go into international industry. “Gordon didn’t have anyone about their careers. I encountered marketing.” else working for him at the time and someone who was studying food I began pulling together information science in agriculture which seemed With the help of Dr. Kraft and others that would be used in preparing a to fit a little bit with my interest in at the university, he began to pursue position for upcoming World Trade nutrition, health and fitness at the studies in both commerce as well as Organization negotiations.” time. They also mentioned that agriculture. “I was actually the first the employment rate in the field of person in the faculty of agriculture to This international focus was a new agriculture was high.” be allowed to take the international step for the domestic pulse industry.

6 Institute Images / April 2005 PROFILE

in Hsinchu, unofficially Greg was Pulses pave intent on learning more about the business climate and culture in Taiwan and China in general. He got more than he bargained for as his time in the way to an Taiwan coincided with an event that soon captured headlines around the exciting career world—the outbreak of SARS. “Taiwan was the second hardest hit country in the world, behind China. It was a very tense time and an eye- for Greg opening experience to see first hand how they handled a crisis like that.”

SARS curtailed many of his plans to Cherewyk participate in trade and marketing- related activities involving the “We didn’t have a lot of agriculture industry as all of the trade information on where missions, major visits by industry Canadian pulses organizations and food shows in were disadvantaged the region were cancelled. in international To stay connected Greg markets relative to continued to go to Taipei other products and regularly to meet where our focus with his contacts needed to be. I in the Canadian began collecting trade office and information, prior to returning to doing market Canada had meetings profiles and with government working with representatives and Agriculture and and products, including pulses. After agriculture department Agri-Food Canada to three years with Manitoba Agriculture officials. “I still managed prepare tariff schedules so we could and Food, Greg decided to pursue a to bring back some valuable look at different markets around the year-long opportunity to gain some knowledge about the industry and world and decide where the priorities experience farther afield—some 10,800 the market and how to deal with the were.” kilometres afield— in Taiwan. Chinese administration.”

He returned to university in the fall to “My wife, Katharine, had just finished He also brought back a new complete his studies, graduating with her Master’s Degree (in aquatic appreciation for the Chinese culture a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness entomology) and it was the perfect and he continues to study the Management in the spring of 1999. A window for her to take some time Chinese language with the goal of position as an agri-food trade specialist and do something different between one day being able to hold his own with Manitoba Agriculture and Food her school life and establishing a in conversations. “It’s a very hard soon followed, where he built on career in her field. For me it was language to learn, especially if you are his university and Pulse Canada an opportunity to learn about the not immersed in it all the time. I don’t experiences with responsibilities Chinese culture and language and I expect I’ll be conducting meetings in that included working on federal- just jumped at it.” Chinese anytime soon but it will be provincial teams developing strategies valuable to be able to speak casually for priority markets for a variety of While officially working as the with people in their own language Canadian agricultural commodities director of foreign staff at a school Please see Pulse page 21

Institute Images / April 2005 7 A Pulses are dry seeds of legumes that are used as food or feed. They include peas, beans, lentils, and chickpeas. Pulses are excellent sources of protein, vitamins and minerals while being low in fat and high in fibre. Pulses Primer were first cultivated in the Middle East and Central and South America, but their nutritional properties and excellent taste have led to their extensive use around the world. There is currently a renewed interest in pulses in both on Pulses developed and developing countries.

• Health-conscious consumers in affluent markets are Canada’s pulse industry increasing the consumption of plant-based protein in their diets and pulses are the perfect fit for this • Canada can grow high-quality pulses at relatively low purpose. cost because our climate is favourable and farmers • Feed peas are used extensively as feed ingredients in alternate high-scale production of pulses with cereals, Canada, the U.S., and Europe. Since feed ingredients using modern agricultural technology on reasonably are under scrutiny because of their impact on the final priced farmland. In fact, Canadian farmers can grow meat product, feed peas are well-positioned to take more pulses relative to cereal yields than almost any other over a larger part of the international market. country. • Canada’s cool climate provides pulse crops with natural protection against insects and disease. In addition, Canada has a well established infrastructure to store and move Canada an innovative leader grain and pulses from the producing regions to the port • Canada has taken a leadership role in innovative terminals for export to international markets. research and development in the pulse sector. • Most of the growth in pulse crops is driven by Ongoing research and careful crop management international demand, as, on average, 70 percent of have contributed to the high quality of Canadian Canada’s pulses are exported. During the last five years, crops. Importers have noted the willingness of the Canadian pulses have been exported to over 150 nations. Canadian pulse industry to develop and produce new • Canada has been the world’s largest exporter of pulses for varieties in Canada in order to meet the needs of their the past nine years, with an average market share of 32 customers. percent. Currently, Canada is the world’s largest exporter • In the absence of international standards, Canada of lentils and dry peas and the fourth largest for chickpeas has taken the lead in standardizing terminology and and dry beans. developing quality evaluation methods for the pulse • The largest market for Canadian pulses is India, industry worldwide. accounting for 22 percent of Canadian exports. Spain is • Canada is also pursuing policies that will allow pulse the second largest market, with a 14 percent share. producers to better meet their business needs while remaining market-oriented and globally competitive. These policies are integrating food safety, innovation, Growing interest and environmental responsibility. The dramatic increase in the demand for pulses worldwide is driven by several factors: Information courtesy of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada • Some country populations are growing at a pace that cannot be matched by the expansion of their own For more information on Canadian pulses, please see the following agricultural sectors. websites: • Globalization is allowing local producers to stop the Pulse Canada Manitoba Pulse Growers cultivation of pulses for the domestic market if they can http://www.pulsecanada.com http://www.manitobapulse.ca produce more profitable crops for export. • Weather patterns are changing and disturbing the expected Alberta Pulse Growers Saskatchewan Pulse Growers agricultural output in some regions of the world. http://www.pulse.ab.ca http://www.saskpulse.com

8 Institute Images / April 2005 PROGRAMS “Risk“Risk Management”Management” thethe focusfocus ofof CIGI’sCIGI’s firstfirst accreditedaccredited graingrain marketingmarketing programprogram

Role playing put theory into practice when participants formed their own grain companies and later became traders in a mock demonstration on the trading floor of the Minneapolis Grain Exchange.

With a revised format and a agricultural industry since its Exchange, and the Chicago Board new partnership with the Canadian inception, the 52nd Grain Marketing of Trade. An intensive learning Securities Institute, CIGI held its first Course represents a major shift in experience, participants found the accredited grain marketing program focus, reflecting the realities of today’s program’s pace, agenda and concepts for financial professionals working in environment. challenging. For Lee Giroux, Manager the agricultural industry. of the Grain and Rebate Program for “Risk management has become an Saskatchewan Agriculture Food and The 52nd Grain Marketing Course, important factor in the agricultural Rural Revitalization, the combination held January 31 to February 4, industry,” said Bruce Love, CIGI’s of theoretical and practical work in brought the resources of the Canadian Director of Commodity Merchandising the first half of the program helped Securities Institute (CSI), Canada’s and Strategic Business Planning. when the participants hit the trading most respected and recognized Increased vulnerability caused by floors for simulation exercises. “Seeing leader in financial education, to the reduced profit margins is creating a the trading floor in Chicago was an program’s 25 participants. Registrants need for financial professionals to be experience I will never forget,” she were people involved in the areas proficient in managing risk. “Offering said. “It really completed the course in of marketing and risk management risk management as part of the a high adrenalin, connect-all-the-dots in the grains and oilseeds sector in curriculum keeps our program current manner.” Canada. On completing the course, with industry practices and trends,” they were automatically enrolled in added Bruce. “This course provided With risk management one of the CSI Agricultural Risk Management the first step for participants on the the fastest-growing aspects of (ARM) Course. Course materials path to valuable career development management in the agricultural provided by CSI allow participants to while providing them with a practical community, Bruce anticipates further obtain recognized accreditation for training opportunity.” refinement and an even more in-depth their studies and advance towards focus on these important financial CSI’s Derivatives Market Specialist The program began with classroom tools in future programs. designation. sessions and hands-on workshops, and included visits to the Canadian While CIGI has provided training Wheat Board, the Minneapolis Grain in grain marketing to Canada’s Exchange, the Chicago Mercantile Institute Images / April 2005 9 PROGRAMS

Seeking a win-win solution can be a challenge. For the 19 delegates who participated in the Agriculture, International delegates Biotechnology, Biosafety and Trade Program October 18 to 22, the subject provided both challenge and examine agricultural issues opportunity. The opportunity is the ability to implement a global system which protects biological diversity. related to biotechnology, The challenge is to do so without undue costs and disruption to the efficient bulk grain handling systems biosafety and trade used throughout the world.

The program was developed by the Government of Canada to encourage discussion regarding the Biosafety Protocol (BSP). Charles Charron, Deputy Director in the markets and trades sector of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, welcomed the group, and introduced the week’s agenda. Attending the program were government and industry officials from agricultural, environmental and trade policy sectors in Africa, Asia, Latin America, the Middle East and Canada. Delegates had an opportunity to discuss Canadian research initiatives and laboratory The Biosafety Protocol came into force techniques used in plant biotechnology with personnel from the Saskatchewan Research on September 11, 2003 with more than Station of Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in Saskatoon. Before departing the city, they 100 countries ratifying the agreement also toured AgWest Bio and the Plant Biotechnology Institute. to date. The Protocol seeks to protect biological diversity by regulating due to an absence of sampling and facilities and a container-loading international trade of living modified testing methods which could be facility highlighted the quality control organisms (LMOs)—basically, universally adapted. measures employed at every step in organisms that have been genetically Canada’s grain handling chain from altered through biotechnology. This Another key focus during the program the farm to elevator, to train, to port, includes genetically modified (GM) was an examination of the activities and finally, to export vessel. crops, which in Canada include involved in a bulk handling system. varieties of canola, corn and soybeans. In Canada, grains with similar qualities Through discussions and tours of received from different producers several plant research facilities in “Canada supports the Protocol’s are blended into larger lots to ensure Saskatoon, participants also learned objective, and signed the agreement in consistent quality. Some discussion about the Canadian regulatory 2001, but we have not yet ratified the ensued about the plausibility of using framework for plants with novel traits, agreement due to the potential impact an identify-preserved (I.P.) shipping including living modified organisms. it could have on the world grain method for all grains. Although trade,” said Charles in his opening Canada has some I.P. products, the While the practical realities of remarks. “The Canadian industry vast majority of grain is shipped in establishing LMO regulations in has invited you here to discuss these bulk. The Canadian perspective was the global grain trade is played out issues and to develop a common that the existing I.P. system would on the international stage, Charles understanding of the potential impact be slow, complex, too expensive for said Canada’s Agricultural Policy on developed and developing nations routine use in bulk commodities, and Framework and recent on and off- of key provisions of the Protocol.” that more research is required before a farm safety initiatives are steps in the viable system can be implemented. right direction. “Our goal is to build Discussion highlights included the on Canada’s reputation as a reliable potential impact of mandatory testing A visit to the Canadian Grain supplier of safe food produced in an and labeling of all grain commodities Commission’s laboratories and tours environmentally safe manner.” and the roadblocks to achieving this of primary and terminal handling

10 Institute Images / April 2005 PROGRAMS

CIGI held three Fall programs provide programs for international customers insight for overseas and trade partners in the fall of 2004. participants

Durum quality highlighted during Algerian program

A scale model of the Port of Montreal gave participants of the Algeria- Canada Wheat Industry Program a bird’s eye view of the transfer elevators and shipping activities of this busy port. In the past decade, a yearly average of 1.3 million tonnes of Canadian durum has passed through this port en route to Algeria.

To ensure one of Canada’s key durum markets is kept informed about quality advances in Canada’s durum industry, CIGI held the 4th Algeria-Canada Wheat Industry Program from October 4 to 12. Conducted on behalf of the CWB, the program emphasized the milling and processing quality of Canada Western Amber Durum (CWAD) wheat, a commodity used in Algeria to produce couscous, a traditional rice-like staple. While in Winnipeg, participants also examined the processing characteristics of other types of Canadian wheat. Following formal sessions, demonstrations, and local farm and elevator visits, the entourage flew to Quebec where the 15 participants inspected a transfer elevator at the Port of Montreal, from where their Canadian grain purchases are shipped.

Institute Images / April 2005 11 PROGRAMS

Japanese “New Crop” processors Seminars visit bring timely buckwheat information to capital of buyers' doors Canada Each year following harvest, the Japanese millers and CIGI technology staff Canadian Grain Commission (CGC) enjoy a moment of camaraderie before processes thousands of grain samples valuable technical exchange with one getting down to the production of Soba received from farmers thoughout of its largest buckwheat customers. noodles. The program is part of an ongoing the prairie provinces. Exhaustive technical exchange with Japan to evaluate testing of the samples by trained Despite its name, buckwheat is not new buckwheat varieties developed in personnel provides a clear picture of Canada. a type of wheat, but is instead one the composite processing qualities of Canada’s most important special of all classes, grades and varieties crops. In Japan, buckwheat flour is In October, eight Japanese of Canadian grain for the crop year. used to produce the traditional “Soba” participants attending CIGI’s first- In addition to being available in noodle. Over a three-day period the ever buckwheat program found print or through the CGC web site participants, members of the Japan themselves deep in the heart of (www.grainscanada.gc.ca) the data Buckwheat Millers Association, buckwheat country. Considered the from these annual quality reports learned about the production, buckwheat capital of Canada due to is also taken on the road when handling and marketing of the 8,000 to a near-perfect growing environment, CIGI organizes offshore “new crop” 12,000 hectares (20,000 to 30,000 acres) Manitoba accounted for 73 percent of seminars each year on behalf of the of buckwheat harvested in Manitoba the country’s buckwheat production Canadian Wheat Board. in 2004–05. each year. They also discussed current buckwheat research efforts in The seminars are tailored to specific The Japan-Canada Buckwheat Canada and together with CIGI staff markets or companies and enable Program, held October 14 to 16, was evaluated first hand the milling and discussions based on the processing sponsored by the Canadian Special noodle making properties of Canadian conditions, products and expectations Crops Association (CSCA) to provide a buckwheat. of that market.

CWB-CIGI China Malting Barley Seminars November 19 to December 2 Seminars on the quality and performance of Canada’s 2004 malting barley harvest for China’s burgeoning beer industry attracted a total of 254 people during one-day seminars held in Guangzhou, Shanghai, Dalian and Beijing. Seminars scheduled for two other cities were cancelled due to poor weather. The seminars were presented by representatives from the CWB, the Canadian Malting Barley Technical Centre (CMBTC) and CIGI, Representatives from the CWB, CIGI and CMBTC met with COFCO staff in Shanghai, and emphasized the advantages of one of four locations in China where malting barley seminars were held last November the newer two-row malting barley and December. varieties.

12 Institute Images / April 2005 PROGRAMS

Asia New Crop Seminars November 20 to December 10 Winter in Winnipeg launches A total of 140 participants domestic program season attended presentations by a five- person CWB/CIGI team in the More than 250 Canadians braved chilly winds, icy roads and typically Philippines, Vietnam and Thailand. notorious Winnipeg winter weather to attend programs at CIGI in recent A seminar-style format was also months. Between October 2004 and February 2005, CIGI held 10 courses used during visits with individual designed for various groups including producers, grain marketers and members companies in Malaysia. of Canada’s feed industry. An 11th course (for award-winning prairie grain growers) was also getting underway at the end of February (see next issue for North Africa highlights). New Crop Seminars November 26 to December 10 st Canada’s durum wheat quality During the 31 Combine to Customer course, Bill Smith, the CWB’s and varieties were the focus for e-communications manager (top right) seminars held in Morocco, Algeria discussed the board’s new e-newsletter and Tunisia. In Bahrain, Oman and for producers, MyCWB, during an the United Arab Emirates, the focus informal question and answer session shifted to emphasize the quality with participants. of Canada’s red spring and hard white wheat. The four-person team Producer programs from CIGI and the CWB provided information to 48 customers during provide productive the two-week mission. exchange Europe: 2004 Western The interaction that producers facilities to see how Canadian wheat Canadian Wheat Quality unfailingly bring to the Combine to is used by various customers, and the Seminars Customer courses each year ensures requirements that their wheat must January 28 to February 4 that participants, the industry and, fulfill in order to satisfy the needs of ultimately Canada’s grain buyers, are the world’s buyers. Similar activities, Seminars were provided for well served. Classrooms were filled to relating to malting barley, took place key wheat buyers in Greece, Spain, capacity for each of the six producer- in the malting and brewing facilities of Italy and the United Kingdom. oriented programs beginning with the the Canadian Malting Barley Technical The four-member seminar team 26th course in November 2004 through Centre (CMBTC). consisted of two CIGI and two to the 31st “C to C” course which CWB representatives who provided ended February 25, 2005. technical and market information Annual program provides on CWRS during visits to Athens, Each four and one-half day course overview for Canadians Barcelona, Liverpool and Milan. gives producers a front row seat For the visit to Foggia, the emphasis from which to observe the activities working in agriculture shifted to CWAD and its suitability that take place within the industry, for high-end pasta production in this CIGI’s annual Canadian Grain including cereal research, market market. development, producer and customer Industry Course was held for the th support. It also helps participants put 26 time from December 13 to 17, faces and names to the organizations 2004 with 34 Canadians attending. behind those services. Integral to The course provides orientation for each course is a day-long visit to employees new to the industry and the Canadian Wheat Board. The a broad perspective for staff working Canadian Grain Commission is for Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, another port of call, highlighting the CWB, CGC, and CIGI. Following this organization’s role in regulating the program, participants have a the industry and the activities of its better understanding of the inter- world renowned Grain Research relationships between the major Laboratory. At CIGI, participants organizations in Canada's grain take part in technology workshops in industry. the Institute’s pilot scale processing Please see Programs page 21

Institute Images / April 2005 13 FEATURE Canadian farmers are among the best in the world, the vital front line in Canada’s agricultural network that makes “grown in Canada” a guarantee of clean and consistent quality grain.

Just as no two fingerprints are the same, no two farmer’s experiences are entirely the same. In Canada’s grain belt, which stretches over 80 million acres (32 million hectares) of prairie in Western Canada, the land is a patchwork of different soil types, climates, temperatures, and environmental conditions that dictate distinct approaches.

But in the end, the rituals of seeding, growing and harvesting are the same, and so is the ultimate goal—to earn a satisfying living and sustain a way of life that in itself has changed immensely since their forefathers first broke the sod a century ago. Though less labour intensive, farms are larger today and the challenges can be formidable, demanding an immense personal and financial investment. One Farmer’s Experience

It’s this level of knowledge and Winter on the farm commitment that leaves a lasting It’s the end of February and from the working on the oil rigs impression with grain buyers when they McAuley’s kitchen window a thick in Alberta, Owen has come face to face with Canadian producers. blanket of snow covers the stubble lived his life on this Last year alone, more than 150 customers from the fall harvest. It’s deceptively land homesteaded visited prairie farms during CIGI quiet on this crisp prairie morning, the by his grandfather programs. fresh country air, tranquility and open nearly a century Beginning in this issue of Institute spaces painting a scene that no doubt ago. This man Images, we profile Owen McAuley, a contributes to a prevailing urban myth and the land seem respected farm leader and prairie producer about life on a prairie farm. inseparable, much whose family operates a 6,000 acre (2,400 like his relationship “Many people still think of farmers hectare) mixed grain and livestock farm with his wife and as passive individuals whose lives near the southwestern Manitoba village business partner of are relatively simple,” says Owen. of McAuley, named for earlier generations 36 years. Anna-Mae “That’s just not the case.” He should of his family. Over the next three issues, Marshall and Owen know. A third generation farmer, he we will follow Owen, his wife Anna-Mae, McAuley grew up on has witnessed both the highs and lows and their daughter and son-in-law Laurie farms three and one-half miles apart, of life on the land and the immense and John Gilbertson through their yearly married young, and have built their changes that continue to alter the production cycle ending with the fall lives around this farm ever since. Two prairie landscape. harvest. of their now adult children have left Aside from two years at university the farm, but the legacy of this family studying agriculture and a year farm endures. Their daughter Laurie

14 Institute Images / April 2005 FEATURE

season,” says Owen. There’s potential costs, margins and revenue grain to be cleaned and hauled, on a per-acre basis before committing machinery to be maintained, to the year’s seeding plans. repairs to be done, and 400 A multitude of farm meetings head of beef cattle to be fed provided by the Canadian Wheat and tended to until the herd Board, numerous grain companies can return to the pasture in the and farm organizations ensure spring. And on this particular Canadian producers are up-to-date farm, it’s calving season, a cow- on agronomic developments in calf venture managed largely plant breeding, developments in by Laurie and John, who will technology, weather and world trade deliver most of the newborns forecasts, customer expectations and expected this year. global issues that could impact their Cropping decisions operations. With spring seeding still roughly But as every farmer knows, there are eight weeks away (as of the no guarantees. Events can conspire end of February), the family to undermine the best laid plans, and has finalized its budgeting and this past harvest is a recent reminder. cropping plans for the coming Seeding went well, and they narrowly season. There’s nothing missed being delayed by a late arbitrary or random about snowstorm in May. Their luck held with their crop yields, among the best they’ve ever had. But a slow, wet harvest and an early frost downgraded the crop’s value. It’s an unpredictable life and an increasingly high-risk business, but the McAuleys’ wouldn’t trade it for anything. “Agriculture has not been without its ups and downs, but it has clearly treated us well,” Owen remarks. Nonetheless, he concedes that he doesn’t speak for most farmers. For 11 years, he was Vice Chair of the This winter, Owen took Debt Review Board in Manitoba. “I part in two five-day producer programs at can guarantee that’s not what many CIGI: the 30th Combine people would say,” he says. But he to Customer Course in attributes bad timing, not poor farm January, and a cross- management, for the struggles many border exchange with farmers have endured. American producers during the Canada-U.S. Owen’s perspective has helped him Farmer Connection weather the lows and move forward Program in March. during the highpoints in farming cycles. “We have made huge strides in these decisions. It building our net worth over the years, begins with an but it has always been done in spikes. assessment of the Most years, we just hope to break even previous harvest or make a bit of money. Then you get and husband John joined the family and their economic status. This is those years when the price of wheat business in 1993. when Anna-Mae’s year-round record shoots up to $5 a bushel. That’s when Though the cropland now lies keeping as the farm’s unofficial office we build huge amounts of equity.” dormant, activity never stops in manager pays off big time. Using farm the day-to-day business of farming. management software, the family “Winter is probably our busiest can project, with a few keystrokes, Please see Feature page 22

Institute Images / April 2005 15 TECHNOLOGY Feeding trials a shared experience

“We’re pleased with the response to the 50/50 trials thus far and with the cooperation of the companies involved,” say Rex. “One of the key benefits is that we have buy- in from the companies. While the monies involved are not huge (for example half of the cost of a shipment of feed peas into China in 2004 was approximately C$3,000) it still represents a commitment on their part. They are invested in the process, One of three 50/50 feeding trials underway in China’s Guangdong Province is testing feed not just financially but also through peas in the diets of Peking ducks. the involvement of their research facilities and staff.”

A new approach to funding “By sharing the cost we can penetrate Companies also benefit from the CIGI-led feeding trials is getting a a region very effectively. Asia, and freedom to determine how they want good response from companies in key particularly China, is a target market to use the feed ingredient during international markets and is paving because of the possibilities that exist the trial. For some that may mean the way towards greater awareness there. They aren’t producing enough testing it in diets for chickens or hogs and use of Canadian feed ingredients. of their own feed material to meet while for others it could be ducks their needs,” says Rex. or tilapia. If the company chooses, Dr. Rex Newkirk, CIGI’s Director of the results of the 50/50 trials can also Feed, uses the term ‘50/50 feeding A recent Pulse Canada report indicates be kept confidential—an option not trials’ to describe the initiative. As the the combined feed requirement in typically available in studies where phrase implies, the approach involves China, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea the feed material has been provided at a shared financial commitment totals 135 million tonnes. It is expected no cost and a report of the findings is between those involved in the trials. that China’s feed requirements alone published and made available to the will double by 2015 to reach 177 industry at large. “Basically feed companies pay for million tonnes. half of the cost of the ingredients “It’s a competitive industry and some to conduct the trials and the other CIGI has a long history of conducting companies like to keep their research half is covered by industry partners feeding trials in many parts of the confidential. This approach gives like Pulse Canada or by CIGI using world to enable customers to gain them that choice,” says Rex. matching dollars available through practical experience with various its CAFI (Canadian Agriculture and Canadian feed ingredients. Typically As the current trials are completed, an Food International) funding from the CIGI or industry partners like the evaluation will be done to determine Government of Canada,” says Rex. Canola Council of Canada and Pulse what the future holds for the 50/50 Canada would pay the full cost for initiative. “There is lots of potential in There are currently four 50/50 trials the materials used in the trials, which international markets,” says Rex. “The underway—all using feed peas— would limit the number of studies more exposure we can provide to the involving three different companies in that could be held within a particular quality of Canadian feed ingredients, Guangdong Province in south China region. In 2004 Rex proposed the 50/50 the greater the potential for Canada to and one in Taiwan. Each received one concept as a way to work with the further establish itself in these markets. container of material (26 tonnes) and feed industry to expand the number of The 50/50 trials are one way of helping Rex provides any technical support feeding trials being conducted. to make that happen.” required. 16 Institute Images / April 2005 TECHNOLOGY

for the ability to better negotiate The mission was also an opportunity Rapid NIR test price, based on real value rather than for Linda and others on the team to appearance or test weight. A rapid test visit processing facilities and retail to focus on will also offer end users information outlets to gain an appreciation for the to help them best use feed barley in types of soy products currently being feed barley animal rations. manufactured and sold in the different regions. Linda noted for example that Soybeans on the soymilk market in Japan has really The Alberta Government, taken off, potentially paving the way Canadian Wheat Board, Agriculture for the introduction of other products and Agri-Food Canada, the University stage in Asia made from soy milk such as ice cream. of Alberta, Ridley Inc. and CIGI are collaborating on a three-year project Participation in an Asian mission Closer to home, work with the to develop a rapid Near Infra-Red organized by the Canadian Soybean Canadian soyfood industry is Reflectance Spectroscopy (NIR) test Exporters Association (CSEA) in proceeding as CIGI and the Guelph that determines the nutrient value of late 2004 was another step in CIGI’s Food Technology Centre continue cereal grains with a focus on barley for continuing efforts to expand its work to collaborate on projects involving feed. with other Canadian commodities. their “virtual” training and technical resource centre initiative announced Dr. Linda Malcolmson, CIGI Director in 2003. Projects proposed for of Special Crops, Oilseeds and Pulses 2005–06 include courses focussing was part of an 11-person industry on the flavour of soy foods and the team that traveled to Singapore, use of soy ingredients in low carb Malaysia, China and Japan from foods, the continued gathering of November 19 to December 4 to market information on soy-based conduct seminars on behalf of CSEA. foods in other countries and technical Aimed at customers and potential assessments of soy food products in customers of food grade soybeans, export markets. the seminars provided information about the new crop, an update on the Canadian Identity A feed analyzer will be used to scan samples. Preserved Recognition System (CIPRS) To develop the test, numerous barley administered by samples from producers across the Canadian Grain Western Canada will be collected and Commission, along analyzed for nutritional value then with details about used to calibrate a central NIR set of soybean research, values that can be applied across the production and the industry. export system in Canada. The NIR test will operate using an instrument to scan a grain sample Linda’s presentations contained in a cup while software focussed on innovations in the In Singapore, the CSEA delegation determines the nutritional value of the development of soy food products visited the Unicurd Tofu plant. Left contents. This approach is very similar in North America, beyond more to right: Roger Rivest, Great Lakes to a current test used to determine familiar items like tofu and soymilk. Organic; Bill Riley, Ontario Soybean protein content of grain delivered to “In Canada we’re developing more Growers; Jim Gowland, Ontario elevators. mainstream soy-based food products Soybean Growers; Linda Malcolmson, such as frozen desserts, cheeses and CIGI; Francis Goh, Unicurd Tofu; Benoit Brunelle, La Coop Féderée du Quebec; Once the project is completed yogurts. The industry representatives Malcolm Morrison, AAFC. CIGI will assist grain companies, overseas were genuinely interested to feed manufacturers and farmers hear about the types of products being in implementing the NIR test to developed here and their growing determine the value of barley. popularity in the North American market because they are looking for The NIR test is expected to provide new opportunities that will appeal to enhanced market opportunities for consumers in their markets as well,” producers as the results will allow says Linda. Institute Images / April 2005 17 INDUSTRY NEWS

Update: International Durum Wheat Workshop

The Third International Durum Wheat Workshop • P. Betournay, Grisspasta Products Ltd. to be held in Winnipeg, Canada, September 6 to 10, 2005 • Dr. N. Ames, Cereal Research Centre, Agriculture and (previously reported in Institute Images, December 2004) is Agri-Food Canada expected to bring together international scientists focussed • Dr. B. Marchylo, Canadian Grain Commission on durum wheat technology and quality, as well as representatives from processing industries including durum Featuring the theme ‘Mapping the Future,’ the workshop millers, pasta and couscous manufacturers, and bakers of will focus on recent developments and priorities in durum durum wheat specialty breads. wheat research and what can be anticipated in the next Confirmed Speakers five to 10 years. Future requirements and developments in the durum processing industry will also be discussed. A number of invited speakers and their THIRD INTERNATIONAL DURUM WHEAT topics have been confirmed for the WORKSHOP Chair of the local organizing committee, workshop and more may be added. To Dr. Brian Marchylo, expects the event date, they include: will build on the success of the previous international durum wheat workshops Nutrition - Dr. J. M. Jones, Professor of in Montpellier, France (2000) and Rome, Nutrition and Food Science, College of St. Italy (2002). Organizers hope up to 150 Catherine, USA people will attend the workshop, which Milling and Manufacturing - will be conducted in English. Dr. J. Abecassis, Laboratoire of Cereal Technology ENSA-INRA Montpellier, As an added incentive, durum workshop attendees will France receive a reduction in registration fees for the American New Products Innovations/Developments – Dr. David H. Association of Cereal Chemists (AACC) 2005 annual Hahn, Director of Research and Technical Service, New meeting, which takes place immediately following the World Pasta Company, Harrisburg, USA durum workshop from September 11 to 14 in Orlando, Breeding and Genetics – Dr. J. Clarke, Durum Breeder, Florida. They will also receive a $50 coupon that may be AAFC-SPARC, Canada used for a variety of purchases from AACC fees to books. Quality Evaluation and Prediction - Dr M. J. Sissons, NSW Agriculture, Tamworth Agricultural Institute, Australia Abstracts deadline April 30 Food Safety - T. Nowicki, Canadian Grain Commission, The organizing committee also invites submissions for oral Grain Research Laboratory, Canada and poster presentations. The deadline for submission of Markers and Mapping - Dr. R. Knox, Biotechnologist, abstracts is April 30. Semiarid Prairie Agricultural Research Centre, Canada Information about the workshop is also available at In addition, international researchers and Canadian www.mapthefuture.org representatives invited to co-chair sessions include: More information may also be obtained from: • Dr. M. Carcea, Unità Cereali, INRAN, Italy Dr. Brian Marchylo (Chair) • Dr. J. M. Carrillo, Professor of Genetics and Plant (204) 983-3320 Breeding, Unidad de Genética Escuela Técnica E-mail: [email protected] Superior de Ingenieros Agrónomos, Ciudad Universitaria, Spain Linda Schlichting (Coordinator of Submissions) • Dr. M. G. D’Egidio, Istituto Sperimentale per la (204) 984-8450 Cerealicoltura, Italy E-mail: [email protected] • Dr. E. M. Elias, Durum Wheat Breeder, North Dakota Fax: (204) 983-0724 State University, USA • Dr. C. Pozniak, Crop Development Centre, Mailing address: University of Saskatchewan Grain Research Laboratory • Dr. J. Dexter, Canadian Grain Commission Canadian Grain Commission • Dr. L. Malcolmson, Canadian International Grains 1404-303 Main Street Institute Winnipeg MB Canada R3C 3G8 • G. Worden, Canadian Wheat Board

18 Institute Images / April 2005 INDUSTRY NEWS CWB signs wheat sales agreement with China

Signing the agreement are (seated) Bill Spafford, Vice President, Marketing for the CWB, and Yu Xubo, Vice President of COFCO. Standing (left to right) is Haiguang Shi, General Manager of the CWB office in Beijing; Joseph Caron, Canadian Ambassador to China; International Trade Minister Jim Peterson; COFCO President M. Liu Fu-chun and Ken Sunquist, Assistant Deputy Minister, International Trade.

The Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) has signed a New Director Appointed to Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the China National Cereals, Oils and Foodstuffs Import and Export Grain Research Laboratory Corporation (COFCO) for the sale of one million tonnes of milling wheat in 2005–06. The wheat sale is to be negotiated under normal commercial practices and at market values. Dr. Peter Burnett Based on current prices at the time of signing, the value of was appointed the agreement is approximately $250 million. Director of the Canadian Grain The agreement was signed January 21 in Beijing by Commission’s (CGC) Bill Spafford, the CWB’s Vice President, Marketing and Grain Research Haiguang Shi, General Manager of the CWB’s Beijing office, Laboratory (GRL) with Mr. Yu Xubo, Vice President of COFCO and Madam in January. Peter Yang Hong, General Manager of COFCO’s Wheat Division. succeeds Dr. Bill The signing, witnessed by Canada’s International Trade Scowcroft, who Minister Jim Peterson, coincided with the Government of headed the GRL since Canada’s trade mission to China. May 1999.

“China is an important market for the high-quality milling Peter previously wheat produced by western Canadian farmers,” said Bill. served as the “We are pleased to commit to continue meeting the needs of Assistant Site the Chinese market in the coming year.” Manager of the Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada Cereal Research Centre in Winnipeg. He began his career in China was the largest foreign buyer of Prairie-grown wheat 1968 as an entomologist/plant pathologist with the Crop in 2003–04, with imports of 1.8 million tonnes. The CWB’s Research Division, Department of Scientific and Industrial trading relationship with COFCO began in 1961 with a Research, in Christchurch, New Zealand. He holds a long-term sales agreement for Prairie wheat and barley to doctorate in entomology. China. Since then, China has become one of the CWB’s “Peter brings a wealth of both scientific and management largest customers, importing a total of more than 120 experience to this critical role in the organization,” said million tonnes of grain. The CWB now provides about half Gord Miles, Chief Operating Officer, CGC. “His career has of China’s total annual wheat imports and one-fifth of its been dedicated to exploring opportunities and challenges annual malting barley imports. in the agricultural sector.” Institute Images / April 2005 19 INDUSTRY NEWS

Ken served for many years as Chair of the Wheat, Rye Ken Preston retires from the CGC and Triticale Quality Evaluation team of the Prairie Registration Recommending Committee for Grain and was a member of the Wheat Advisory Committee of the Western Grains Research Foundation. He was active in the AACC, having served on numerous technical committees as well as the awards committee.

Ken also served as Associate Editor for a number of journals including Cereal Chemistry, published by AACC, and as a member of the editorial board of the Journal of Cereal Science.

Albert Schatzke

re-appointed CGC

commissioner In September 2004 Ken Preston (left) was elected an American Association of Cereal Chemists (AACC) Fellow. Jim Dexter, AACC Last December Albert Schatzke, vice-chair of CIGI’s President and Program Manager of Milling Research at the CGC Board of Directors was re-appointed as a commissioner presented the award. Ken retired from the CGC in December. with the Canadian Grain Commission (CGC). Albert, of Stony Plain, Alberta, has over 30 years experience in the en Preston retired from Canadian Grain K grain and livestock Commission (CGC) last December where he served as industries. He has a research scientist since 1973. He joined the CGC after served as President receiving his doctorate in plant science from the University of the Alberta of Manitoba. At the time of his retirement he was Manager Canola Growers of Bread Wheat Studies and Baking Research in the CGC’s Association, Grain Research Laboratory. President of In September 2004 Ken was elected an American the Prairie Association of Cereal Chemists (AACC) Fellow at the Canola Growers AACC’s annual meeting in San Diego, California. Ken Association, was one of only two people elected as Fellows out of the Director of Alberta AACC’s 4,000 members. Terminals Ltd. and Director and The AACC cited Ken’s outstanding publishing record in President of the the fields of wheat quality, wheat processing technology Stony Plain Seed and wheat protein chemistry. It also acknowledged his Plant Association. exceptional work in the development and technical In March 2002, he was made an honorary life member of marketing of Canadian wheat classes and varieties. the Canola Council of Canada.

The AACC is an international organization whose In addition, Jean-Paul Charlebois, of St-Bernardin, members contribute to the research, development and Ontario, and Donna Welke, of Regina, Saskatchewan, processing of grains and grain-based products. The Fellows were each re-appointed as assistant commissioners. The program honours members who have made distinguished term of Assistant Commissioner Hartmann Nagel, of contributions in the fields of cereal science and technology Woking, Alberta, ended and an appointment to replace in research, industrial achievement, leadership, education, him is to be made. communication or regulatory affairs. Headquartered in Winnipeg, CGC commissioners set Throughout his career, Ken’s reputation made him a much policy and carry out the broad objectives and provisions sought after speaker at international conferences, which of the Canada Grain Act. Based in Canada’s major grain- earned him a Pillsbury Lecture Award and an Australian growing areas, assistant commissioners deal with inquiries Government Senior Research Fellowship. He also travelled from producers and the grain industry and publicize CGC extensively as a consultant for the Canadian Wheat Board activities in their regions. and CIGI.

20 Institute Images / April 2005 Pulse continued from page 7 over lunch or dinner and travelling to multi-disciplinary teams to work greater emphasis will be put on the and from meetings. That’s really my on specific projects. On any given potential that exists in North America, goal—to break down some of those day he can find himself interacting viewed by many in the industry as the barriers and make it easier to establish with animal nutritionists, breeders, biggest new market for pulses. “Many a bond with people you’re doing researchers, processors and producers, Canadians still see pulses as an ‘exotic’ business with.” to name just a few. “I’ve really come to product as opposed to something that enjoy working with diverse groups of could become a mainstay in their diet,” Greg and his wife returned to people from throughout the industry. says Greg. “Adding value to pulses Winnipeg in December 2003 and in Everyone involved is innovative, by incorporating them into more January 2004 he joined Pulse Canada creative and enthusiastic about the mainstream foods, developing new in his current role as Director of opportunities that are out there.” products and emphasizing their health Programs. It’s a position that makes benefits are some of the ways we can full use of his experiences in Asia and In Asia, for example, Pulse Canada’s help to jumpstart the North American as an agri-food trade specialist as he success in the removal of market market.” works to develop new markets and access barriers for feed peas in China, improve market access for Canadian Korea and parts of Taiwan has led Needless to say there is no shortage of peas, lentils, beans and chickpeas. to a number of market development places for Greg to channel his energy, His geographic areas of responsibility activities involving CIGI designed to enthusiasm and expertise. “This is an are Asia, India, the Middle East and give feed manufacturers experience industry that is always challenging, Mexico. using the product (see story ‘Feeding always interesting and always forcing trials a shared experience’ on page 16). you to be creative in the ways you “I guess you could say I’ve come full This spring Greg will see another capture opportunities or overcome circle,” says Greg, thinking back to his project in the Asian market come to challenges,” says Greg. summer job at Pulse Canada. What’s fruition as Pulse Canada, the Canola changed since that experience is the Council of Canada and CIGI join It sounds like the perfect environment scope of his work as the production forces to hire and train a technical for someone who’s made the most of of, and interest in, Canadian pulses consultant in China to provide an his own opportunities and challenges continues to increase. ongoing presence and support in this to forge a career he truly loves. key market. “The pulse sector is growing so quickly that it’s an exciting place to be,” says While he expects his work will Greg. For him the greatest reward continue to have an international is the opportunity to bring together focus in the future, he also anticipates

Programs continued from page 13 understand why the value of specific ingredients can fluctuate relative to CIGI and ANAC partner competing commodities. to help industry put Individual laptop computers and freeware formulation software Canada’s best feed used during the program to assess forward the relative price value of various feed ingredients helped suppliers Mycologist Randy Clear from the Canadian understand how such calculations The 2nd Grain Handlers Seminar Grain Commission led a discussion and affect the buying decisions of feed held on behalf of the Animal Nutrition demonstration of the major diseases and manufacturers. Association of Canada (ANAC) degrading factors of feed grains affecting brought together 14 Canadians animal health and nutrition. Tracey McGrath, Manager of Technical involved in purchasing and receiving Services for ANAC, who worked with feed commodities used for animal In February CIGI and ANAC CIGI’s Dr. Rex Newkirk in developing feeds. The one-day program, partnered again to provide the 7th the program, says the opportunity held October 21, 2004, provided Feed Commodity Suppliers Course for participants to re-use the software participants with practical information February 16 to 18. Representatives after the program provided more take- for identifying factors that affect the from large and small grain companies, home value. nutritional value of feed grains. The along with three inspectors from the course also provided information Canadian Food Inspection Agency, ANAC represents members within about correct sampling procedures for attended the sessions. The course Canada’s feed industry and provides incoming commodities to ensure that provided information on quality programs and services that ultimately only quality ingredients enter the feed specifications for various feed promote the excellence of Canada’s chain. ingredients and helped participants feed industry. Institute Images / April 2005 21 Feature continued from page 15 FEATURE

Although those spikes continue to Paradoxically, it’s his commitment occur, they don’t provide the same to rural life and the family farm opportunities as they have in the past. that takes him away from the farm “The margin between expenses and several days a week. With his candid profit has changed dramatically,” says demeanour and his capacity to absorb Owen. “When I started farming in and retain information, Owen has 1964, if I spent 50 cents, I got a dollar become a vital voice for rural Canada, back, so I could absorb some losses and and has a long history of leadership still make money.” For young farmers, in agricultural and community issues there’s not the same opportunity to at the municipal and provincial levels. build equity. Today Owen says he He also serves on panels at the federal spends about 90 cents to earn a dollar. government level focussed on farm Anna-Mae’s managerial skills are put to “With those margins, how much risk safety nets, transportation, and trade use year-round with the aid of the latest can you stand? issues. Whatever the locale, he is as farm management computer technology. comfortable on the tractor, as he is in consequences, and that means my “John and Laurie have built equity just the boardroom or at the podium. on blood, sweat and tears. It’s been community continues to dissipate, and a real struggle for them because their A proponent for change at a time in our young people move away. You return on investment is so limited.” his life when he’d prefer not to, Owen have to focus on the bigger picture, the has nonetheless seen enough to know bigger community and that may not Today, at 56, Owen is more that standing still is a good way to be your town; it may be your region, representative of the average get run over, both for farmers and the it may be your province, it might be Canadian farmer than is his 40-year- industry beyond the farm gate. your country. If you haven’t got your old son-in-law. In fact, there are three eye on the bigger community, at the times more farmers in the 55+ age “If I don’t want to accept change, I’d end of the day you’re not going to be group than farmers under 36. better be prepared to live with the relevant to the bigger community.”

Laurie and John Gilbertson, with daughter Kaitlyn (far left).

Next issue: Into the growing season

22 Institute Images / April 2005 PARTICIPANT UPDATES 27th International Grain Industry Program

Back Row L to R: Garth Gusberti, Akbar Sharifi-Khorzoghi, Mohammad Jafari-Aryaee, Carlos Schott Gebler, Roman Jurga, Takeo Teranishi, Gary Warkentine, Gerald Heinrichs, Carl Stewart, Chris Gillen, Grant Halm, Olgierd Lossman.

Middle Row L to R: Paul Tong, Gabriel Posada Cueto, Len Seguin, Yuichi Sato, Ana Elena Rivera, Gary Urwin, Guozhou Yuan, Yue Guo, Jong-Sam Lee, Marilyn Kapitany, Jose Tovar, Isaac Kaonang.

Front Row L to R: Tailin Huang, Wieslaw Kowalewski, Pat Eycott, Paul Westdal, Arnold Tremere, Celine Duguay, Yoshikazu Shoji, Juana Maria De Pool. Laboratory at Weston Research Labs Co. He later became Manager with Participants from the 27th at the time of the program. She is also the company. Mr. Lee left Samsung in International Grain Industry involved with the National Association 2003. Program represented 12 different of British and Irish Millers, preparing a countries. For a three-week period laboratory accreditation and auditing There were three participants from from May 25 to June 11, 1992 the protocol. Japan. Yoshikazu Shoji continues group was provided a comprehensive to work for the Yamazaki Baking Co. overview of the Canadian grain Three participants from Poland Ltd. in Tokyo where he is General industry through lectures, attended the program. Dr. Roman Manager, Purchasing Department. demonstrations and tours to farms Jurga is now Editor-in-Chief of Takeo Teranishi, who was Chief and facilities throughout Western Przeglad Zbozowo-Mlynarski, “Grain of the Quality Evaluation Section Canada. In addition to CIGI staff, 44 and Millery Review,” in Warsaw. with The Food Agency, Ministry of external resource people from Canada, During the program, Dr. Jurga worked Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, the United States and England for the Central Laboratory for Cereal has been seconded to the Ministry of contributed their expertise to the Grains Storage and Processing. Environment Kinki District Office in program. Wieslaw Kowalewski, who also Osaka where he works as a Deputy worked for the Central Laboratory Director. Yuichi Sato, who also We were pleased to be able to locate a as Chief of the Milling Machinery worked for the Ministry of Agriculture, number of the participants from this and Equipment Group, now has Forestry and Fisheries has left the program. Here’s an update on their his own company in the milling department. He now lives overseas. activities. industry, MLYNPROJEKT, located in Poznan. Olgierd Lossman, who In Singapore, Isaac Kaonang continues In the United Kingdom, Pat was a Specialist with the Central to work for Prima Limited as Group Eycott is a Training and Auditing Laboratory, has left the organization. Systems Engineer. He has been with Specialist with the Campden & He continues to live in Warsaw. the company for more than 20 years. Chorleywood Food Research Association (CCFRA) in Chipping Korean participant Jong-Sam Lee Carlos Schott Gebler from Chile Campden, Gloucestershire. is now General Manager with SGS continues to work for Compañia CCFRA conducts research and Korea in Seoul. SGS is an inspection, Molinera Schott S.A. in Osorno, Chile. development for the food and verification, testing and certification He has been the General Manager for drinks industry worldwide. Mrs. company with offices and laboratories the past 12 years and has worked for Eycott, who joined CCFRA in worldwide. During the program, the company since 1978. 1996, was Head of the Cereals Mr. Lee was a Trader with Samsung

Institute Images / April 2005 23 PARTICIPANT UPDATES Mexican participant Gabriel Posada Len Seguin remains with the program, he was General Manager Cueto is General Manager of a new Canadian Grain Commission. He was for Continental Grain Canada in company he started in 2000 named appointed Chief Grain Inspector for Vancouver, British Columbia. Grupo Proyecta, which focusses on Canada in September 1996. Prior to construction projects in the hotel and assuming his current role, Mr. Seguin Fellow Feed and Oilseed Program entertainment industry. At the time was Regional Director for the CGC’s participant Charlie Pearson is now of the program, Mr. Posada Cueto Prairie Region for two years. During a Provincial Crops Market Analyst worked with Industrial Harinera La the program in 1992, he was a Deputy with Alberta Agriculture, Food and Asuncion in Puebla. Director in the Inspection Division. Rural Development (AAFRD). He was working with the Canadian Wheat There were 10 Canadian participants Paul Tong who was Marketing Board at the time of the CIGI program. on the program. Manager for Asia Pacific at the Canadian Wheat Board left the Edward (Ted) Battrum, a participant Celine Duguay is currently Director CWB in January 1993. We have no from the 26th International Grain of Multilateral Technical Trade information on his current activities. Industry Program held in 1991 retired Issues under the International Policy from Pioneer Grain in 1994. He lives Directorate with Agriculture and Agri- Gary Warkentine started his own in Meota, Saskatchewan. Food Canada (AAFC) in Ottawa. She company, Trade Area Solutions, in has been in this position since 2001. 1995. His areas of responsibility We also received messages from past During the program, Ms Duguay was include economic analysis and location participants with news about their Secretary, Commercial (Agriculture & analysis for retail stores. At the careers. Congratulations to Burke Food) with the Canadian Embassy in time of the program Mr. Warkentine Wood, a participant from the 5th Washington, DC. was a Senior Market Analyst with International Grain Industry Program Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada. held in 1975 who was appointed Chris Gillen continues to work for the President of United Grain Corporation Canadian Wheat Board (CWB) where From CIGI, Arnold Tremere and Paul in Portland, Oregon, U.S.A on he is a Marketing Manager in the Sales Westdal have left the organization. December 1, 2004. Department, responsible for Europe, Dr. Tremere retired in 2002 and is Russia, Central Asia, the Middle East living in Medicine Hat, Alberta. Mr. Also in December 2004 we received and Africa. He joined the CWB in 1989 Westdal now works as a consultant for a note from Carmen Saiz in Spain. and has been in the Sales Department Stiltscorp Limited in Winnipeg. He Ms Saiz was a participant on the 29th since 1993. retired from CIGI in 2001. International Grain Industry Program in June 1995, when she was General We are sorry to report that Garth We were unable to locate the following Manager of Italgrani Iberia, S.A., a Gusberti passed away in 2000. Mr. participants. News from or about Spanish subsidiary of Italgrani, S.P.A. Gusberti was the CWB’s Director these individuals would be welcomed After 32 years working in the grain of Seaboard Operations and had and included in a future issue of industry Ms Saiz is taking a one-year participated on several CIGI programs. Institute Images: Juana Maria De sabbatical, following the liquidation His career with the CWB spanned Pool (Dominican Republic), Yue Guo of all the Italgrani Group companies 27 years and he is still fondly (China), Grant Halm (Canada), Tailin in Spain. Both Mr. Wood and Ms Saiz remembered for the warmth and Huang (China), Mohammad Jafari- recalled how much they enjoyed their humour he shared with colleagues Aryaee (Iran), Ana Elena Rivera time on their respective international and industry members. (Venezuela), Akbar Sharifi-Khorzoghi programs. (Iran), Carl Stewart (Canada), Jose Gerald Heinrichs is the Manager of Tovar (Venezuela), Gary Urwin (New Thank you for staying in touch with us James Richardson International’s (JRI) Zealand), Guozhou Yuan (China). at CIGI. Your news is always welcome Thunder Bay Terminal in Ontario. At and appreciated. Participant updates the time of the program Mr. Heinrichs More participant news may be sent to Institute Images as was a Divisional Manager with follows: Pioneer Grain. Following our last issue of Institute Email: [email protected] Images we were contacted with news Mail: 1000-303 Main Street Marilyn Kapitany is currently the about a few participants missed in Winnipeg, MB Canada Assistant Deputy Minister of Western recent updates. R3C 3G7 Economic Diversification, a position Fax: (204) 983-2642 she has held for the past year. At the Murray Stow, a participant from the time of the program, Ms Kapitany 9th International Feed and Oilseed Thank you to the staff of the Canadian Trade was the Executive Manager of Program (April 27 to May 14, 1992) is Commissioner Service for their assistance in International Grain Consultation with an Oilseed Merchant with Agricore locating the international participants from the 27th International Grain Industry Program. the Canadian Grain Commission. United in Winnipeg. During the

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