Quebec, with its northern climate and vast agricultural lands, offers fertile ground for the development of emerging crops.
In recent years, we have seen more and more different and interesting cultures appear, which have certainly piqued the curiosity of Quebec consumers!
These new crops present advantages both agronomically and nutritionally, which make them promising options for the future of Quebec agriculture.
Discover three emerging crops that have a promising future in Quebec: sea buckthorn, haskap and camelina.
The arrival of sea buckthorn in Quebec
Sea buckthorn, sometimes known as "Siberian olive", is a thorny shrub native to the northern regions of Europe and Asia. In Quebec, sea buckthorn was introduced in the early 1990s and quickly adapted to the climatic conditions of the province.
THE sea buckthorn berries are small, but they are no less nutritious! They are rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. A favorite of the next generation of chefs, the sea buckthorn berry is often used in the production of juices, jams, syrups, vinegars, desserts and also teas and herbal teas.
Sea buckthorn also has valuable qualities for farmers because it is resistant to disease and pests, and it can grow in poorer soils. Qualities that help him remain resilient during Quebec's arduous seasonal cycles.
Haskap, a small fruit with bite
Originally from North America, the haskap was rediscovered in Quebec in the 1970s. It is distinguished by its dark blue color, its oblong shape and its sweet and tangy flavor.
Like sea buckthorn, haskap is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which gives it interesting nutritional properties. It can be eaten fresh, but it is also used in making jams, jellies, syrups and sometimes even alcohols.
Quebec farmers are increasingly attracted to haskap production because of its hardiness and its ability to adapt to the various regions of Quebec. In addition, this emerging crop is not very demanding in terms of fertilizers and pesticides, which makes it attractive from an agronomic point of view.
Haskap opens up new perspectives in the field of agriculture in Quebec, thus contributing to the diversification of crops and the development of the local food industry.
Camelina, the future of oil production in Quebec
Perhaps you have also recently heard about camelina. This food native to Eastern Europe has been cultivated for centuries for its oil-rich seeds.
Camelina seeds contain a high amount of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamins, making them a valuable ingredient for food and feed.
In addition, camelina has interesting agronomic advantages, because it requires little fertilizer and pesticides, and it can be grown in rotation with other crops, which helps improve soil health.
In Quebec, camelina has gained popularity in recent years due to its resistance to northern climatic conditions. So much so that in January 2023, camelina oil from the Quebec company Signé Caméline won first prize at the International Exhibition of Catering, Hotels and Food (SIRHA) Innovation Lyon – Bocuse d’Or competition, a highly prestigious gastronomic competition.
Sea buckthorn, haskap and camelina are just a few examples of the many emerging crops that are making their way in Quebec. And the climatic changes will undoubtedly bring even more. Who knows in a few years what foods will appear in Quebec fields?
