Camelina offers new potential for Saskatchewan producers

Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food

Although camelina is not a new crop, Saskatchewan farmers have grown it sparingly over the years because of its relatively small market.

But, the expansion of the biofuel and health food industries has generated new interest in the crop, leaving some proponents to speculate that there will be a significant increase in planted acreage in the coming years.

Dr. Kevin Falk with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC) recently prepared a paper on camelina. In it, he suggested that, with the many potential uses for the crop, combined with its favorable agronomics, camelina may have a place in Western Canadian agriculture.

Ray McVicar, the Provincial Specialist for Specialized Crops with Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food (SAF), agrees with this positive outlook. “Growers and processors are looking for new crops that could be used to make biofuels such as biodiesel,” he noted. “Camelina has the potential to be one of those crops.”

Camelina’s other attraction is its possible application in human nutrition. It has a unique fatty acid profile that could make it a good source of omega three and omega six fatty acids. McVicar suggests that the health food industry is currently seeking products that have improved health attributes, which might present new opportunities for camelina.

Although the crop has excellent potential for growth, McVicar says its markets still need to be developed.

“There are a couple of companies currently buying camelina, but it is still a small market,” he stated. “If camelina proves to be a crop that can be used in the production of biodiesel, in the human nutrition market, or in skin care and health-related products, then there will be a much greater demand for it.”

While the crop has great potential, McVicar suggests that farmers should first find a market for it before adding it to their rotation.

For more information, contact:
Ray McVicar, Provincial Specialist – Specialized Crops
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
Phone: (306) 787-4665
E-mail: rmcvicar@agr.gov.sk.ca