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Agri Business Review: Specials Magazine
TurnKey Genomics delivers end-to-end genomic solutions tailored to the agri-food sector, enabling new innovations in crop development. Its cutting-edge genomic and bioinformatics technologies and biosurveillance systems help seed companies, plant breeders, greenhouse growers and food producers develop new food species and varieties that thrive in the modern agricultural landscape. “Given the vast differences in geography and growing conditions across Canada, it’s essential to have crop varieties that perform well in a wide range of environments,” says Chris Grainger, founder and CEO. With advanced degrees in molecular biology, genetics and plant breeding, Grainger combines deep expertise with 20 years of research experience at the University of Guelph. He collaborates with clients at the breeder level to develop tailored solutions and has built a nationwide network comprising the next generation of plant breeders. That deep scientific grounding is reflected in TurnKey Genomics’ approach, which centers on using genome sequencing technologies to enhance breeding efficiency. These powerful tools identify optimal parent combinations and select superior progeny tailored to specific growing regions. Through its crop development and breeding support services, Turnkey helps reduce the time and cost required to develop new plant varieties, cutting years off traditional breeding cycles. This enables seed companies to respond faster to climate variability, regional growing challenges and shifting market demands with high-performing, resilient crop varieties. In one instance, a seed company facing seed purity issues in their breeding program partnered with TurnKey Genomics to ensure the genetic integrity of their developing varieties. It implemented a low-cost DNA fingerprinting system to uniquely identify each breeding line, enabling early detection of contaminants and mislabeling. This solution was integrated at key stages in the pipeline, especially before multi-location performance trials, resulting in higher seed purity, improved reliability of trial data and enhanced overall breeding efficiency. The approach helped reduce errors, safeguard product quality and accelerate the development of competitive, true-to-type crop varieties. Clients can also leverage its crop protection and biosurveillance services to develop crops resistant or tolerant to new pests and pathogens. It helps in new trait development for seed companies by identifying genes important for controlling various phenotypic characteristics and utilizing molecular markers to select the crop varieties carrying the necessary genes. It also supports the integration of advanced gene editing tools like CRISPR, enabling precise trait enhancement and faster incorporation of these technologies into breeding pipelines.
Top Forage Seed Supplier in Canada 2025
No two seasons are ever the same in agriculture. One year may bring drought and weed pressure, while the next may be marked by heavy rainfall and heightened disease risk. For producers, this climate volatility creates ongoing uncertainty around crop yields, seed selection, and supply planning. And when decisions miss the mark, the entire operation feels the strain: livestock feed is compromised, soil health deteriorates, and productivity declines. This is where DSV NorthStar, a Canadian-based seed company, steps in to turn the tide. With a diverse portfolio of regionally adapted genetics, the company delivers reliable seed solutions that promote resilience, optimize yields, and support long-term sustainability—no matter how the climate changes. Founded in 1982 as NorthStar Seed, the company began with a focus on alfalfa and leafcutter bees. Over time, it built a strong reputation in the forage seed space through a strategic partnership with DSV, a German plant breeding company. In 2022, that partnership evolved into a full acquisition, resulting in the formation of DSV NorthStar. Today, the company offers high-performing solutions for crops such as alfalfa, cover crops, and turf—supporting livestock health and enhancing soil fertility. Its products stand out for their strength and diversity. By offering a well-balanced mix of seed varieties—bred and rigorously tested in North America—DSV NorthStar ensures consistent performance tailored to the Western Canadian climate. “Along with high-quality products, we also prioritize a high level of service. Our seed offerings combine genetics specifically adapted to Western Canada with elite European breeding from DSV, giving our clients the best of both worlds,” says Rob Wolfe, General Manager. DSV NorthStar serves both retail and wholesale markets. In retail, customization is at the core—from tailored seed blends and agronomic advice to fast delivery across Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and British Columbia. On the wholesale side, the company manages the production of its own genetics as well as third-party contract production for other seed companies. Its products are sold across Eastern Canada and exported to key markets including the U.S., South America, Asia, and Europe. Despite this global reach, DSV NorthStar remains grounded in its mission: to offer fit-for-purpose solutions aligned with each client’s needs—backed by strong customer support. Regardless of what the weather brings, the focus is always on delivering the right solution..
Sustainable Agricultural Solution in Canada 2025
Canada’s short harvesting season has led to increased dependency on imported vegetables to satisfy domestic demands. This has driven communities to explore innovative approaches for creating resilient local food supply chains. sdsdsd Urban Stalk is leading the charge in the Canadian food industry with its patented solution to strengthen local crop production and reduce increasing dependence on imported food. The company is on a mission to nourish the native communities with its novel POD Technology that optimizes the growing conditions of over 50 vegetable cultivars while minimizing cost and environmental footprints. They work with retail grocers, restaurants and food banks that are committed to supporting the effort to improve the yield of vegetable crops, translating to better health and well-being. “Our proprietary technology creates a simulated natural environment, mimicking the perfect atmosphere for growing crops with the highest nutritional values,” says Brent Downey, founder and CEO. The POD Technology is a modular blend of hardware and software designed for efficient and sustainable farming. The innovation is licensed to a range of farmers, from small-scale operators to large agricultural enterprises. By simulating a natural environment, it addresses the growing concern over the safety of agricultural practices and keeps risks of food contamination at bay. Growth-environmental parameters are sent through updates and alerts on smartphones, allowing for a better farm-life balance for growers who are used to the traditional farming style. Urban Stalk’s vertical farming PODs are interconnected through its Global Pod Network, a smart-connected network infrastructure that allows farmers to communicate, share date optimizations and micro-control growing environments. Urban Stalk analyzes valuable data and resources, tailoring crop production to local demands and addressing varying regional preferences for particular crops. The system enhances local food availability and reduces transportation and handling costs, minimizing the risk of contamination.
CXO INSIGHTS
Harnessing the Power for Analytics for Agriculture - Predictive Models
Caroline Morissette, Digital Transformation, DataGeek and Business Change Leader, McCain Foods and Soma Muruganandam, Director Global Agriculture Data & Analytics, McCain Foods
Automated Irrigation is a Game-Changer for Farming
Jose Garzon, Sr. Manager for Precision Agriculture, Florida Crystals
From Farm to Can: A Look at the Environmental Impact of Canned Fruits and Tomatoes
Cody Nore, National Sales Manager, Pacific Coast Producers
Indoor Farming at Pan American Seed
Gus Tassara, Global Director Seed Production, Ball Horticultural Company
Cultivating Innovations in Cannabis Agriculture
Michael Towey, Senior Vice President of Production and Infrastructure, Good Day Farm
Improving Public Health Through Agriculture
Colleen M. Zammer, Vice President of Varietal Solutions Growth & Corporate Innovation, Bay State Milling Company
Driving Innovation and Sustainability in Poultry Nutrition
Stacey Roberts, Ph.D., Senior Director of Nutrition, Versova
IN FOCUS
Canada's Forage Seed Industry and Its Agricultural Legacy
Canada's forage seed industry is crucial for livestock nutrition and the agri-food economy, focusing on sustainable practices and innovation to meet rising global demand.
LED Technology and the Evolution of Canadian Crop Production
Canada's agriculture is evolving through LED light technology, boosting sustainability, optimizing crop yields, and enhancing food security, with diverse applications in greenhouses and vertical farming.
EDITORIAL
The Meteoric Rise of Agri-Food Genomics in Canada
Canada is rapidly establishing itself as a global leader in the agri-food genomic solutions market. This dynamic sector has embraced advanced biotechnologies that are transforming every facet of agriculture and food production. In a landscape shaped by challenges such as climate change, food security, sustainability, and the need to stay globally competitive, genomic innovation emerges as an imperative. It enables producers, processors, and consumers to benefit from focused, high-impact solutions at every stage of the value chain. Recent years have seen a marked acceleration in genomics research and its commercialization nationwide. Support from governmentbacked clusters has been instrumental in this effort. Through their work, projects that combine genomics and artificial intelligence are making breakthroughs, from seed development to food processing. Newly announced federal initiatives are advancing priority areas like the development of improved crop varieties, supply chain optimization, and food safety. Altogether, these advancements are moving Canada closer to a more expansive, sustainable plant-based ingredient and food processing industry. The impact of genomics extends far beyond yield improvements. Precision breeding now enables the creation of crops with enhanced resistance to pests and extreme weather, reducing the need for chemical inputs and promoting environmental stewardship. Additionally, genomics significantly enhances traceability and quality assurance, which are essential for ensuring food safety and supporting the growth of Canada’s global export markets. Collaboration is a hallmark of Canada’s approach. Strong partnerships among academic researchers, industry stakeholders, and government agencies help translate lab discoveries into practical, real-world solutions. Organizations such as Ontario Genomics, Genome Québec, and Genome Alberta play a crucial role in delivering innovations to farms and food businesses, thereby increasing the resilience of Canada’s diverse agri-food sector. This edition highlights some of the most influential companies in the sector, including TurnKey Genomics, which is renowned for its comprehensive solutions that accelerate crop development and enhance resistance traits. We also share insights from respected industry leaders, such as Darrin Duell at Olymel and Naomi Theunissen at The Star Group. We hope that the valuable insights from industry leaders and the solutions and services featured in this edition will help you make informed decisions for your business.
