JAKS Automation, one of the recipients of CFIN's Innovation Booster Program, is developing a robotic paneer handling and packaging system.
The Canadian Food Innovation Network (CFIN) has allocated $464,518 to support six innovative foodtech projects through its Innovation Booster Program. These projects, which will be matched by industry contributions, are expected to have a total value of nearly $930,000.
Among the recipients of Innovation Booster funding are:
- GreenCo Robots Inc. (Alberta)
- Project Title: Integrated Table Tracking Solution for Quick Service Restaurants
- Funding: $97,922
- GreenCo Robots, known for providing robot waiters to Canadian restaurants since 2020, plans to introduce a Table Tracking Solution tailored for Quick Service Restaurants (QSRs). This initiative aims to enhance operational efficiency and improve the dining experience by seamlessly integrating with autonomous robot models.
- Cheffer Technologies Inc. (Ontario)
- Project Title: Intelligent Menu-Planning Assistant
- Funding: $94,415
- Cheffer Technologies seeks to empower foodservice operators with its Intelligent Menu-Planning Assistant, leveraging data science and AI. This tool aims to optimize ingredient selection during menu planning, focusing on efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainability.
- ProFillet (Nova Scotia)
- Project Title: Pilot Trials of Plant-Based Nutritious Catfish
- Funding: $94,107
- ProFillet aims to develop a plant-based fish fillet analogue that replicates the taste, texture, and nutritional composition of raw channel catfish. This project, recognized as a finalist in the 'XPrize – Feed the Next Billion' competition, focuses on enhancing the sustainability of seafood alternatives.
- Dispension Industries Inc. (Nova Scotia)
- Project Title: Intoxication Detection System for Unattended Alcoholic Beverage Kiosks
- Funding: $89,562
- Dispension Industries specializes in self-service beverage kiosks and aims to enhance safety with its Intoxication Detection System. This system, utilizing thermal imaging, aims to analyze intoxication levels in real-time to ensure responsible alcohol dispensing.
- Transport Genie Ltd. (Ontario)
- Project Title: Smart Real-Time Gas Sensors Development and Integration
- Funding: $60,107
- Transport Genie is developing gas sensors to monitor gases like ammonia, carbon dioxide, and ethylene during transportation events. This innovation aims to enhance precision and address sustainability concerns, particularly in reducing food waste.
- JAKS Automation Inc. (British Columbia)
- Project Title: Robotic Paneer Handling & Packaging System
- Funding: $28,405
- JAKS Automation is implementing a robotic pick-and-place system for paneer production. This system aims to optimize production efficiency and minimize waste through precise handling and packaging.
Dana McCauley, CEO of CFIN, emphasized that these projects represent the network's commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the food industry. She highlighted the importance of introducing intelligent solutions and cutting-edge technologies to create a more efficient and customer-centric food sector.
The Innovation Booster Program reflects CFIN's vision for a future where Canadian innovations lead the way in addressing industry challenges and promoting sustainability. With a focus on collaboration between industry and innovators, these projects aim to revolutionize various aspects of the food industry, from restaurant operations to food production and safety.
