Study finds Manitoba uniquely positioned to lead efforts to improve health
through food

WINNIPEG, March 18 /CNW/ - According to the recently released study, "Benchmarking Study of the Existing Science Base Supporting a "Canadian Climate Advantage Diet (CCAD)", Manitoba has the opportunity to lead efforts that could result in significant health benefits through the development of a diet that focuses on the unique characteristics of Canadian-grown and processed crops. Flax2015 and their health and nutrition consultant, Kelley Fitzpatrick, completed the study, which was commissioned by the Manitoba Agri-Health Research Network Inc (MAHRN).

"Following the release of the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute (CAPI) report "Building Convergence: Toward an Integrated Health and Agri-Food Strategy for Canada" last summer, we felt it was time to collect and analyze existing data that would lay the groundwork for future work needed to validate and communicate the concept of a "Canadian Climate Advantage Diet (CCAD)"," says Lee Anne Murphy, Executive Director of MAHRN. "With an initial focus on 5 Manitoba commercial crops with significant climatic and health advantages, we wanted to explore the linkages between consumption of the crop and its impact on select end points of diet-related health concerns." Murphy indicates the recommendations in the report will be reviewed as part of an overall strategy to address critical gaps in the science base required to support and validate a CCAD.

Copies of the Executive Summary are available upon request to the MAHRN office.

Manitoba Agri-Health Research Network Inc (MAHRN) promotes Manitoba's capacity and capabilities in the research, development and commercialization of functional foods and nutraceuticals. Anchored by world-class facilities including Canadian Centre for Agri-Food Research in Health and Medicine (CCARM); Richardson Centre for Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals (RCFFN) and Food Development Centre (FDC), Manitoba is a 'one-stop shop' for the testing and assessment of plant and animal-based bioactive compounds, from the producer through clinical proof of safety and efficacy to product development and commercialization.

For more information Manitoba's vibrant functional food and nutraceutical industry, please visit www.mahrn.ca

For further information: Lee Anne Murphy, PhD, Executive Director, [email protected], [phone]