Pulse Quality Program

As identified in SPG’s strategic plan, there is a need to build diversified demand by expanding the use of pulses and increasing market opportunities. One strategy to achieve this is to explore improved processing, functionality, and novel uses for pulse ingredients through research and market development. Evaluating quality components in new pulse varieties is important to understand varietal and environmental impacts on seed characteristics, functionality, millability, and other factors that could influence the fit of new varieties for use in pulse processing and ingredient use. Understanding the influence of management practices on quality is also important to ensure production practices align with market needs.

The Pulse Quality Program (PQP) was developed to evaluate the impact of variety, environment, and, ultimately, management practices on quality parameters of pulses and pulse ingredients and to provide this information to the broader pulse industry and end-users.

Pre-project work was undertaken, beginning in 2020, when a survey was conducted with processors and fractionators of pulse ingredients, identifying important quality factors and attributes sought out by the ingredient industry. The Saskatchewan Food Industry Development Centre (SFIDC) was chosen as the lead on this project. Initial program steps included developing standard protocols for testing and determining equipment used to provide repeatable results that other organizations could use.

Phase 1 of the program is ongoing, with 2022 and 2023 quality reports completed (see below). Phase 2 begins in 2025 and will expand on Genetics by Environment (GxE) analysis, functionality analyses, and the addition of agronomic management parameters from field-scale research.

The program seeks to understand GxE relationships by pulse variety and ultimately aims to ensure growers understand quality parameters influenced by environment and management practices. This will help select varieties best suited for growers’ farm locations and target end-use markets.