He is an international authority on oat breeding and utilization. Research Scientist Emeritus at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, he developed and registered more than 25 new varieties, including the first high protein and hulless strains. As well, he was instrumental in promoting the importance of oat dietary fibre in the control of high cholesterol. He has shared his knowledge and expertise with fellow researchers and his significant research innovations have benefited the agricultural and food industries.
Officer of the Order of Canada
Awarded on: 2018-11-19
Invested on: 2019-02-01
Vernon Douglas Burrows, O.C.
Ottawa, Ontario
Vernon Burrows has elevated oats to a world-class cereal grain. Over a career spanning 60 years at Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, he developed numerous varieties of oats including AC-Gehl, the first fully hulless variety that is also safe for those with gluten sensitivities. His innovations have had a profound effect on the enhancement of the grain’s nutritional value, production and accessibility. An ambassador for Canadian science, he has shared his expertise and specimen samples abroad, particularly in China, where he has helped make oats a viable crop alternative.
This is a promotion within the Order.