The Cigi-Japan Durum Wheat Program runs from Oct. 15 to 19. The Japanese participants include senior managers and technical staff from 11 different companies. During the program the group will learn about the functional properties of Canada Western Amber Durum wheat and the important role new varieties are playing in this wheat class.
“There was considerable interest from the Japanese industry to come to Cigi to work with and learn from Cigi staff and Canadian industry representatives about CWAD quality and Canada’s continued commitment to meeting customers’ quality requirements,” said Earl Geddes, Cigi executive director. “We increased the number of participants attending to meet the demand.”
In addition to the technical component which will see participants involved in sessions in Cigi’s milling and pasta processing facilities and analytical lab, there are also presentations from Canadian Grain Commission and Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada representatives on topics ranging from grain inspection and grading to durum wheat breeding.
“Japan’s durum millers and pasta processors have very significant and specific quality requirements,” said Esey Assefaw, head of Asian Products and Extrusion Technology at Cigi and chair of the program. “The Japanese pasta market is going through considerable changes brought about by economic factors and changes in consumer preferences. In this environment it is important for Canada to continue to demonstrate the superior quality of CWAD and its ability to meet the requirements for Japanese products.”
