University of Saskatchewan graduate’s startup Cultured Bites wins People’s Choice Award at Opus Innovation Expo

Kara Friesen, a University of Saskatchewan (USask) graduate student and founder of Cultured Bites, has won the People’s Choice Award at this year’s Opus Innovation Expo. Her startup, which produces tempeh-based food using locally sourced peas, oats, and lentils, impressed attendees with its approach to sustainable, plant-based protein.

Friesen’s interest in fermentation began during her master’s studies in food and bioproduct sciences. “My research focused on adding value to Saskatchewan crops by adapting traditional fermentation techniques to local ingredients,” she said. “When speaking to potential customers, they kept telling me they’d love to see more products like tempeh and that there was enough market demand for a product like this in Saskatchewan and Canada.”

A former dietitian, Friesen saw firsthand how challenging it was for patients with heart and kidney conditions to incorporate more plant proteins into their diets. Her experience led her to develop a tempeh product that is soy-free and gluten-free, making it an accessible and nutritious option for a wider audience.

Her scientific approach – using mathematical modeling to optimize amino acid profiles – stood out at the Opus Innovation Expo. “I really appreciated that connection that I had with the audience, and winning the award just confirmed that my product is relevant and that we’re doing good research here at USask as well,” said Friesen. “It just boosts my confidence in those areas.”

Friesen credited her success to the support of USask faculty, industry mentors, and the Opus i2Build program, which helps deep tech founders turn research into viable businesses. “Opus is a really good way to get plugged in. They give you lots of support, and it’s recognized across campus,” she said.