Queen’s Park Farmers Market Promotes Ontario Local Food
Posted: June 10, 2016
Categories: Food in the News / GoodFoodBites / News from Sustain Ontario
Jeff Leal, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs officially opens the 3rd annual Queens Park Farmers Market.
On June 9th, over 500 people gathered on the front lawn of Queen’s Park for the 3rd annual Queen’s Park Farmers Market. It was a mixed crowd of attendees, but the consensus was clear: supporting local food is a no-brainer.
As Jeff Leal, the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural affairs put it, “Ontario is an agri-food powerhouse” – the event today was proof of this. The agri-food sector was widely represented, the Ontario Beekeeper’s Association, the Ontario Bean Growers, and the Turkey Farmers of Ontario were among the many exhibitors.
Earlier this week the 2015/2016 Ontario Local Food Report was released. The main objective of 2015 was to enhance awareness of local food in Ontario, and the 2016 target is to increase access to local food. This is good news for consumers, as many market-goers today voiced that a lack of access is the main barrier to consuming more local food.
Chef Bruce Wood showcasing his delicious asparagus topped beer pancakes. Photo by Jessie Cowes
Two Sustain Ontario members were in attendance. ‘Locavore Chef’ Bruce Wood from Beaus All Natural Brewing Company praised the event, stating that “it highlights and supports local food, while also emphasizing the importance of eating what’s in season.” He added that “the anticipation is great!” when referring to truly looking forward to a crop’s harvest. He mentioned that events like this allow consumers to understand that “eating local is not only about the quality and freshness of the food, it’s also a social and environmental responsibility that we all have to support businesses that pay fair wages and have environmentally sustainable practices.” He also stressed that consumers should connect with farmers, as Beau’s works with local farmers to collaborate which in turn, help grow their businesses. “Local food is about working together for a common good. It’s a no brainer!”
Bernt from Asparagus Farmers of Ontario showing off his tasty asparagus!
Bernt Solymár from the Asparagus Farmers of Ontario, a Sustain Ontario member, was also in attendance and stated that the event was “absolutely awesome”. He remarked that bringing food to the decision makers and promoting the amazing variety of local food available in Ontario is a great way to gain more support for the Ontario Agri-Food sector. Given the turnout of today’s event, it appears that support is growing. As Jeff Leal stated “When we buy local we help to grow our agri-food sector, build communities, and grow new jobs.” Local food is clearly something everyone can get behind.
Among the exhibitors, the consensus was that the event was an excellent way to promote and to celebrate all of the exciting things happening in the Ontario Agri-Food sector with government officials and the general public. The event also demonstrated that there is government support for Ontario local food, which will encourage more growth in the sector.
Wide variety of locally grown produce on display at the Queens Park Farmers Market.
As market attendees found a spot on the lawn to enjoy the delicious spread distributed, they were asked about their thoughts on the days event. One group voiced that they were surprised at the seemingly endless variety of Ontario products available. While another group noted that they were impressed by the inventiveness shown by the exhibitors at the event, which was expressed through their creatively delicious samples. One market-goer was even overhead saying that they had just “tasted the best lamb I’ve ever had”. Overall, it was clear that good things do indeed grow in Ontario.