TRULP-Spiritual power of vegetable plants as healing medicine (manitowi-kischihtowin nawach kayas nistamihowin iskwayihk)

Many Northern and Indigenous communities in Canada face significant health challenges, including high rates of diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. These conditions are often worsened by limited access to fresh, nutritious foods. This project seeks to address these issues by developing a functional food prototype made from nutrient-dense vegetables-such as broccoli microgreens-cultivated using advanced smart vertical farming technology.
In close collaboration with the Opaskwayak Cree Nation (OCN) in Manitoba, we are co-developing a culturally appropriate, health-promoting food product that supports both community wellness and local food sovereignty. Our preliminary research has shown that broccoli microgreens grown under optimized smart farming conditions contain significantly higher levels of beneficial bioactive compounds compared to conventionally grown vegetables.
Over the coming months, we will focus on refining the food prototypes and evaluating their nutritional and functional qualities. In parallel, we will explore strategies to integrate Indigenous knowledge and preferences into product development, ensuring cultural relevance and community alignment. We will also assess the market potential of these products through various distribution and commercialization pathways.
By combining cutting-edge science, sustainable agriculture, and community-led innovation, this project offers a novel approach to combating chronic diseases through food-based, preventative solutions. Ultimately, it aims to foster healthier, more resilient, and self-sufficient communities across Canada, while serving as a model for inclusive and sustainable food innovation.

Faculty Supervisor:

Jolen Galaugher;Mavis McRae

Student:

Partner:

North Forge

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education; Management of companies and enterprises; Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

Red River College Polytechnic

Program: