New AAFC partnership advances Canadian meat research and innovation hub
The University of Guelph has welcomed two research scientists— Dr. Óscar López-Campos and Dr. Nuria Prieto—from Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada to support the growth of Canada’s agri-food sector. This collaboration aims to improve food safety, food quality, and food security across the country.
The partnership also supports the university’s goal of becoming a national center for agri-food innovation. Over the next two years, Dr. López-Campos and Dr. Prieto will continue their research work using advanced facilities at the Ontario Agricultural College. Their work builds on research already started at the Lacombe Research and Development Centre in Alberta.
Dr. López-Campos focuses on livestock carcass evaluation and market competitiveness. His research helps identify and measure important traits in livestock that affect the meat value chain. This work supports better decision-making and improves the overall performance of the meat industry in Canada.
Dr. Prieto specializes in meat quality and sensory evaluation. Her research helps the industry improve product quality and create value-added meat products without increasing costs. This approach supports stronger competitiveness in both domestic and global markets.
The research will benefit farmers, processors, and consumers by ensuring safe and high-quality food. It also helps maintain trust in Canada’s food system and strengthens the country’s position in global markets.
Dr. John Cranfield, dean of the Ontario Agricultural College, welcomed the scientists and highlighted the importance of their work.
“I am personally delighted to welcome Drs. López-Campos and Prieto to the University of Guelph,” he said. “The University is proud to be a trusted partner in this nationally significant research, and we are excited to provide an environment where it can continue to grow and make an impact."
Added Guelph MP Dominique O’Rourke: “The incredible leadership and agricultural innovation from researchers and students at the University of Guelph is a driving force in agri-food nationally and globally. I welcome Dr. López-Campos and Dr. Prieto, and am eager to hear more about their work and its contribution to Canada’s food security, resilience and affordability.”
The project builds on Canada’s strong agricultural research system. Scientists at the university are already working in areas such as animal genetics, food safety, and new technologies like artificial intelligence in agriculture.
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