From vegetarian food products to making superfoods from insects, several B.C. companies have received B.C. government funding for agrifood products.

The funding is being issued through the cost-shared Canada–B.C. Agri-Innovation Program under Growing Forward 2, according to a B.C. government announcement issued today (January 27).

The family-run, South Vancouver-based Big Mountain Foods, founded in 1987, has received funding of up to $49,250 for Cauli Crumble, a vegetable ground product made from cauliflower, sunflower seeds, red peppers, and Manitoba yellow split peas. The food item, a meat-free alternative to soy and gluten options, will be usable in dishes such as salads, tacos, pasta, pizza, casseroles, and more.

Burnaby-based Quejos Ancient Foods, which offers gluten-free baked goods and also operates Quesava Kitchen by Quejos on Main Street, is receiving $76,010 to develop a functional, vegetable-based dough.

Meanwhile, ZUUN Nutrition will receive $50,525 for a pilot project for a therapeutic meal-replacement drink mix designed to improve the quality of life for diabetics.

Heilu will receive $45,205 for a pilot project to develop sustainable products from locally farmed insects. The name Heilu is taken from the Latin name of the black solider fly larvae, or Hermetia illucens.

Last but not least, brewers may be interested to note Harvesters of Organic Hops (HOOH) will receive $38,400 for a hop pellet–making project.