Louis Dreyfus Company inaugurated two facilities at its agro-industrial complex in Yorkton, Saskatchewan, expanding canola processing operations and launching its first pea protein production plant in Canada.
The expanded canola processing facility more than doubles the company’s crushing capacity to over 2 million metric tons annually. The new pea protein plant can process up to 75,000 metric tons of yellow peas per year.
The additions position LDC to serve growing global demand for plant-based products in food, feed and renewable energy markets. Saskatchewan is one of the world’s largest pea and canola producing regions.
The company first announced plans for the pea protein facility in February 2024, with an expected completion date by the end of 2025. The plant uses proprietary technology developed at LDC’s research and development center in Livermore, California.
The facility will produce pea protein isolates for dairy alternatives and nutrition solutions, along with pea fiber and a proprietary pea starch for pet food, building materials and paper industries. The plant is expected to employ approximately 60 people by the end of 2026.
LDC Chief Executive Officer Michael Gelchie said the expansion is part of the company’s strategy to diversify revenue through value-added products. The company operates additional North American processing centers in Claypool, Indiana, and Upper Sandusky, Ohio.
The pea protein products are non-allergen and non-GMO, according to the company. LDC said it will provide full supply chain traceability through its integration with North American farmers.
The canola facility processes oilseeds into oil and meal products. The Yorkton complex now houses both traditional oilseed processing and protein extraction operations at a single site.
The company did not disclose the investment amount for the projects.
