taste is a new magazine celebrating the best in local food and drink, and the farmers, chefs and culinary entrepreneurs who bring it all to your table.
Check it out at www.tasteontario.ca
Product of Canada labelling - It's not what you think
Appearances can be deceiving – even when it comes to your groceries. That can of apple juice in your cupboard isn’t exactly what it claims to be. It has recently come to light that seeing a “Product of Canada” label on foodstuffs at the grocery store does not mean it contains purely Canadian ingredients. By law, the label reflects where most of the money is spent on producing a food product. According to current Canadian federal regulations if 51% or more of the product’s cost is spent in Canada, whether via overhead, shipping, or employment costs then it warrants a “Product of Canada” label. Or if the “last substantial transformation” of the goods occurred in Canada then it can also be labelled “Product of Canada.”
These labelling laws were written by the federal government in 1985. It is important to note that in 1985, only 20% of our food was imported. In 2007, 40% of our food is being imported.
Here are some common food items with labelling that has been found to be misleading.
Apple Juice: There are no apple juice concentrate producers left in Canada and only two in the United States. Most apple concentrate sold in Ontario originates in China and ends up on grocery store shelves labelled “Product of Canada.”
Fish: Fish is one of the products that is labelled “Product of Canada” if the last substantial transformation of the goods occurred here. This transformation can include saucing, seasoning, or turning the fish into fish sticks.
Garlic: The “Product of Canada” label on prepared garlic belies the fact that most of the garlic is sourced from China. Despite the tariffs on garlic previously imposed by the Canadian International Trade Tribunal for the country of China, it is Chinese garlic on grocery store shelves (http://www.citt-tcce.gc.ca/).
Ice Cream: If cream is not in the ingredients list (and instead you see modified milk ingredients, skim milk powder, milk protein concentrates, milk protein isolates, casein, caseinates or whey protein concentrates), then most likely you are consuming ice cream made with non-Canadian ingredients.
There is action being taken to address this issue. The Canadian Federation of Agriculture is proposing a “Green Label Program” that would spotlight food produced in Canada. You can read more about it at www.cfa-fca.ca under Program and Projects.
According to a Marketplace report a government committee has been formed and members want to require that 51% of ingredients come from Canada if something is to be labelled “Product of Canada”.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency outlines the labelling system as follows:
Both "made in Canada" and "product of Canada" imply that the food was manufactured in this country. However, these statements do not necessarily mean that all of the ingredients used are domestic. It may be possible to use more appropriate and explicit terms than "made in Canada" to describe the process that the food has undergone. For example:
"roasted and blended in Canada" to describe coffee since the coffee beans are always imported;
"fermented and bottled in Canada from Canadian and imported grapes" to describe wine when more than 25 percent of the grape juice or the grapes are imported;
"packaged in Canada" to describe food which is imported in bulk and packaged in Canada;
"processed in Canada" to describe a food such as peanut butter when the peanuts are imported.
The term "made in Canada" should not be used to describe foods when it is only the label or container that is made in Canada.
You can find a guide to the “Made in Canada” label at the Competition Bureau Canada website:
http://www.competitionbeureau.gc.ca
To find out more about the sources of food on the shelves of Canadian grocery stores, you can try calling Customer Information. A toll-free number should be provided on the package. Warning: You may be left with a lot of unanswered questions!
There are several other places you can contact to voice your concern on the issue. It is recommended that you contact both the bureaucratic agency and Minister responsible.
Health Canada:
Office of Nutrition Policy and PromotionHealth CanadaTower A, Qualicum Towers2936 Baseline Road, 3rd FloorA.L. 3303DOttawa, OntarioK1A 0K9
Phone: (613) 957-8329
Email: healthy_eating@hc-sc.gc.ca
The Honourable Mr. Tony Clement, Minister of Health
Minister's Office - Health CanadaBrooke Claxton Building, Tunney's Pasture Postal Locator: 0906COttawa, Ontario, CanadaK1A 0K9
Email:Minister_Ministre@hc-sc.gc.ca
Canadian Food Inspection Agency:
Phone: 1-800-442-2342
There is also an online form that can completed, available at:
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/tools/feedback/commene.shtml
The Honourable Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture & Agri-Food:
The Honourable Gerry Ritz
Sir John Carling Building
930 Carling Avenue
Ottawa, ON K1A 0C5
Phone: (613) 995-7080
Any letters you send should also be copied to your Member of Parliament:
Chris Charlton (Hamilton Mountain, NDP)
845 Upper James Street West, 2nd floor
Hamilton, ON L9C 3A3
Email: Charlton.C@parl.gc.ca
David Christopherson (Hamilton Centre, NDP)
22 Tisdale Street South
Hamilton, ON L8N 2V3
Email: Christopherson.D@parl.gc.ca
Wayne Martson (Hamilton East – Stoney Creek, NDP)
40 Centennial Parkway North, Suite 2
Hamilton, ON L8E 1H6
Email: Marston.W@parl.gc.ca
David Sweet (Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale, Conservative)
59 Kirby Avenue, Unit 3
Dundas, ON L9H 6P3
Email: Sweet.D@parl.gc.ca
Mike Wallace (Burlington, Conservative)
777 Guelph Line
Burlington, ON L7R 3N2
Email: Wallace.M@parl.gc.ca
These labelling laws were written by the federal government in 1985. It is important to note that in 1985, only 20% of our food was imported. In 2007, 40% of our food is being imported.
Here are some common food items with labelling that has been found to be misleading.
Apple Juice: There are no apple juice concentrate producers left in Canada and only two in the United States. Most apple concentrate sold in Ontario originates in China and ends up on grocery store shelves labelled “Product of Canada.”
Fish: Fish is one of the products that is labelled “Product of Canada” if the last substantial transformation of the goods occurred here. This transformation can include saucing, seasoning, or turning the fish into fish sticks.
Garlic: The “Product of Canada” label on prepared garlic belies the fact that most of the garlic is sourced from China. Despite the tariffs on garlic previously imposed by the Canadian International Trade Tribunal for the country of China, it is Chinese garlic on grocery store shelves (http://www.citt-tcce.gc.ca/).
Ice Cream: If cream is not in the ingredients list (and instead you see modified milk ingredients, skim milk powder, milk protein concentrates, milk protein isolates, casein, caseinates or whey protein concentrates), then most likely you are consuming ice cream made with non-Canadian ingredients.
There is action being taken to address this issue. The Canadian Federation of Agriculture is proposing a “Green Label Program” that would spotlight food produced in Canada. You can read more about it at www.cfa-fca.ca under Program and Projects.
According to a Marketplace report a government committee has been formed and members want to require that 51% of ingredients come from Canada if something is to be labelled “Product of Canada”.
The Canadian Food Inspection Agency outlines the labelling system as follows:
Both "made in Canada" and "product of Canada" imply that the food was manufactured in this country. However, these statements do not necessarily mean that all of the ingredients used are domestic. It may be possible to use more appropriate and explicit terms than "made in Canada" to describe the process that the food has undergone. For example:
"roasted and blended in Canada" to describe coffee since the coffee beans are always imported;
"fermented and bottled in Canada from Canadian and imported grapes" to describe wine when more than 25 percent of the grape juice or the grapes are imported;
"packaged in Canada" to describe food which is imported in bulk and packaged in Canada;
"processed in Canada" to describe a food such as peanut butter when the peanuts are imported.
The term "made in Canada" should not be used to describe foods when it is only the label or container that is made in Canada.
You can find a guide to the “Made in Canada” label at the Competition Bureau Canada website:
http://www.competitionbeureau.gc.ca
To find out more about the sources of food on the shelves of Canadian grocery stores, you can try calling Customer Information. A toll-free number should be provided on the package. Warning: You may be left with a lot of unanswered questions!
There are several other places you can contact to voice your concern on the issue. It is recommended that you contact both the bureaucratic agency and Minister responsible.
Health Canada:
Office of Nutrition Policy and PromotionHealth CanadaTower A, Qualicum Towers2936 Baseline Road, 3rd FloorA.L. 3303DOttawa, OntarioK1A 0K9
Phone: (613) 957-8329
Email: healthy_eating@hc-sc.gc.ca
The Honourable Mr. Tony Clement, Minister of Health
Minister's Office - Health CanadaBrooke Claxton Building, Tunney's Pasture Postal Locator: 0906COttawa, Ontario, CanadaK1A 0K9
Email:Minister_Ministre@hc-sc.gc.ca
Canadian Food Inspection Agency:
Phone: 1-800-442-2342
There is also an online form that can completed, available at:
http://www.inspection.gc.ca/english/tools/feedback/commene.shtml
The Honourable Gerry Ritz, Minister of Agriculture & Agri-Food:
The Honourable Gerry Ritz
Sir John Carling Building
930 Carling Avenue
Ottawa, ON K1A 0C5
Phone: (613) 995-7080
Any letters you send should also be copied to your Member of Parliament:
Chris Charlton (Hamilton Mountain, NDP)
845 Upper James Street West, 2nd floor
Hamilton, ON L9C 3A3
Email: Charlton.C@parl.gc.ca
David Christopherson (Hamilton Centre, NDP)
22 Tisdale Street South
Hamilton, ON L8N 2V3
Email: Christopherson.D@parl.gc.ca
Wayne Martson (Hamilton East – Stoney Creek, NDP)
40 Centennial Parkway North, Suite 2
Hamilton, ON L8E 1H6
Email: Marston.W@parl.gc.ca
David Sweet (Ancaster-Dundas-Flamborough-Westdale, Conservative)
59 Kirby Avenue, Unit 3
Dundas, ON L9H 6P3
Email: Sweet.D@parl.gc.ca
Mike Wallace (Burlington, Conservative)
777 Guelph Line
Burlington, ON L7R 3N2
Email: Wallace.M@parl.gc.ca
Eating Local for the Environment
Wondering what all the fuss on eating local is about? It is a topic that has been receiving a great deal of media coverage and for good reason. Eating local is not only healthier and better tasting; it also benefits the environment. By choosing foods that are produced near you, you are decreasing your ecological impact in several ways.
Perhaps the most obvious benefit of eating local is that it dramatically reduces the amount of transportation required to deliver a food product from farm to fork. A recent study conducted by the Region of Waterloo Public Health found that it takes an average of 4,497 km for 58 commonly eaten food items to reach our plates[i]. Compare this to the distance to your nearest farm-gate stand, farmers’ market, or grocery store that carries local produce and the environmental impact is obvious. Buying local means less ‘food miles’ and thus, cuts down on the greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Buying local also means supporting the local farms that grow the items on your grocery list. Smaller farms are ideal for selling directly to consumers and through the local market because they are well suited to grow a variety of crops. While large-scale farming operations employ the use of monocultures, smaller farms grow a diversity of crops in order to provide their customers with a variety of products. Varying and rotating crops causes less soil degradation and thus requires less pesticides and herbicides to yield a successful crop. Farmers of small to mid-sized farms are generally more likely to be responsible stewards and protect the ecological health of the land[ii]. With the number of farms dramatically decreasing in Ontario, it is important to support the smaller-scale farms that remain and operate with the integrity of the environment in mind.
Unfortunately, farming is becoming an increasingly difficult occupation. The farmers’ share of the food dollar spent by consumers has decreased from over 40 cents in 1910 to less than 7 cents per dollar in 1997[iii]. Supporting local farmers and ensuring farming is a viable occupation allows them to remain on their farm. Otherwise, many farmers are forced to sell their land to developers eager to build large-scale housing projects on fertile agricultural land. Therefore, buying local and supporting farmers helps combat the trend towards urban sprawl.
The environmental impact of where your food comes from is just one reason for the increased popularity of eating local. A recent poll conducted by the Friends of the Greenbelt found that 8 in 10 of respondents prefer to buy locally grown produce[iv]. After considering the environmental impact of our food choices, it is not hard to see why!
[i] Food Miles: Environmental Implication of Food Imports to Waterloo Region, Region of Waterloo Public Health, 2005.
[ii] Gurin, David, “Farmers’ Markets: Opportunities for Preserving Greenbelt Agriculture.”
[iii] Halweil, Brian. Eat Here: Reclaiming Homegrown Pleasures in a Global Supermarket. W.W. Norton and Co. New York. 2004.
[iv] Greenbelt Foundation 2007 Awareness Research.
Perhaps the most obvious benefit of eating local is that it dramatically reduces the amount of transportation required to deliver a food product from farm to fork. A recent study conducted by the Region of Waterloo Public Health found that it takes an average of 4,497 km for 58 commonly eaten food items to reach our plates[i]. Compare this to the distance to your nearest farm-gate stand, farmers’ market, or grocery store that carries local produce and the environmental impact is obvious. Buying local means less ‘food miles’ and thus, cuts down on the greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change.
Buying local also means supporting the local farms that grow the items on your grocery list. Smaller farms are ideal for selling directly to consumers and through the local market because they are well suited to grow a variety of crops. While large-scale farming operations employ the use of monocultures, smaller farms grow a diversity of crops in order to provide their customers with a variety of products. Varying and rotating crops causes less soil degradation and thus requires less pesticides and herbicides to yield a successful crop. Farmers of small to mid-sized farms are generally more likely to be responsible stewards and protect the ecological health of the land[ii]. With the number of farms dramatically decreasing in Ontario, it is important to support the smaller-scale farms that remain and operate with the integrity of the environment in mind.
Unfortunately, farming is becoming an increasingly difficult occupation. The farmers’ share of the food dollar spent by consumers has decreased from over 40 cents in 1910 to less than 7 cents per dollar in 1997[iii]. Supporting local farmers and ensuring farming is a viable occupation allows them to remain on their farm. Otherwise, many farmers are forced to sell their land to developers eager to build large-scale housing projects on fertile agricultural land. Therefore, buying local and supporting farmers helps combat the trend towards urban sprawl.
The environmental impact of where your food comes from is just one reason for the increased popularity of eating local. A recent poll conducted by the Friends of the Greenbelt found that 8 in 10 of respondents prefer to buy locally grown produce[iv]. After considering the environmental impact of our food choices, it is not hard to see why!
[i] Food Miles: Environmental Implication of Food Imports to Waterloo Region, Region of Waterloo Public Health, 2005.
[ii] Gurin, David, “Farmers’ Markets: Opportunities for Preserving Greenbelt Agriculture.”
[iii] Halweil, Brian. Eat Here: Reclaiming Homegrown Pleasures in a Global Supermarket. W.W. Norton and Co. New York. 2004.
[iv] Greenbelt Foundation 2007 Awareness Research.
Fall Harvest: What's available in November
Amaranth
Apples
Beets
Bitter Melon
Bok Choy
Brussel Sprouts
Cabbage
Cantaloupes
Carrots
Cauliflower
Choy Sum
Chrysanthemum
Crabapples
Fuzzy Squash
Garlic
Leeks
Lettuce
Lo Bok
Mushrooms
Mustard
Nappa
Onions
Parsnips
Pears
Peppers
Potatoes
Radishes
Rutabaga
Snow Pea Shoots
Sprouts
Squash
Tomatoes (Greenhouse)
U Choy
Water Spinach
Apples
Beets
Bitter Melon
Bok Choy
Brussel Sprouts
Cabbage
Cantaloupes
Carrots
Cauliflower
Choy Sum
Chrysanthemum
Crabapples
Fuzzy Squash
Garlic
Leeks
Lettuce
Lo Bok
Mushrooms
Mustard
Nappa
Onions
Parsnips
Pears
Peppers
Potatoes
Radishes
Rutabaga
Snow Pea Shoots
Sprouts
Squash
Tomatoes (Greenhouse)
U Choy
Water Spinach
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
Looking for something fun and educational to do
this November? Check out the Royal,
Canada’s premier agricultral fair
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
85th Anniversary
November 2nd to 11th
The Ricoh Centre, The Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition
Place
Toronto, ON
Contact: (416) 263.3400
Website: www.royalfair.org
this November? Check out the Royal,
Canada’s premier agricultral fair
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
85th Anniversary
November 2nd to 11th
The Ricoh Centre, The Direct Energy Centre, Exhibition
Place
Toronto, ON
Contact: (416) 263.3400
Website: www.royalfair.org
To market, to market
The recent interest in the potential reloca-
tion of the Centre Mall Farmers’ Market and
the proposed redevelopment of the Hamilton
Farmers’ Market should remind local con-
sumers and politicians that farmers’ markets
are extremely important community assets
that we can’t afford to lose. Farmers’ markets
present many benefits to participating grow-
ers, the local economy, consumers and the
environment. They also offer farmers a
higher return on expenditure for their prod-
ucts, greater control over their economic
lives, an alternate source of revenue, and an
opportunity to diversify areas of expertise
– in agriculture and business, community
support and networking, and direct-sales
marketing.
Farmers’ markets also help strengthen the
local economy. A dollar spent locally “is usu-
ally spent 6 to 15 times before it leaves the
community. From $1, you create $5 to $14 in
value within that community”. In addition,
consumers drawn to the farmers’ markets
typically spend more money at the stores and
restaurants that surround the market, further
fuelling local economic growth. Farmers’
markets create new job opportunities, par-
ticularly for farm families who often staff the
produce stand, and they have major poten-
tial for safeguarding jobs: a study in On-
tario found that “a total of 24,000 people are
directly involved in preparing and selling the
goods we find in [the province’s 127] farmers’
markets”.
Consumers benefit from the atmosphere and
experience of farmers’ markets; confidence
in and knowledge of growing location and
agricultural methods employed; access to
fresher, healthier food; and strengthening of
local community networks. Farmers’ markets
also help alleviate some pressure on the en-
vironment: the distance food travels is vastly
Update: The proposed new location of
the Centre Mall Farmers’Market is
Ottawa St at Cannon. Contact Eat Local
for more information.
Hamilton Eat Local:
905-572-5967
eatlocal@environmenthamilton.org
tion of the Centre Mall Farmers’ Market and
the proposed redevelopment of the Hamilton
Farmers’ Market should remind local con-
sumers and politicians that farmers’ markets
are extremely important community assets
that we can’t afford to lose. Farmers’ markets
present many benefits to participating grow-
ers, the local economy, consumers and the
environment. They also offer farmers a
higher return on expenditure for their prod-
ucts, greater control over their economic
lives, an alternate source of revenue, and an
opportunity to diversify areas of expertise
– in agriculture and business, community
support and networking, and direct-sales
marketing.
Farmers’ markets also help strengthen the
local economy. A dollar spent locally “is usu-
ally spent 6 to 15 times before it leaves the
community. From $1, you create $5 to $14 in
value within that community”. In addition,
consumers drawn to the farmers’ markets
typically spend more money at the stores and
restaurants that surround the market, further
fuelling local economic growth. Farmers’
markets create new job opportunities, par-
ticularly for farm families who often staff the
produce stand, and they have major poten-
tial for safeguarding jobs: a study in On-
tario found that “a total of 24,000 people are
directly involved in preparing and selling the
goods we find in [the province’s 127] farmers’
markets”.
Consumers benefit from the atmosphere and
experience of farmers’ markets; confidence
in and knowledge of growing location and
agricultural methods employed; access to
fresher, healthier food; and strengthening of
local community networks. Farmers’ markets
also help alleviate some pressure on the en-
vironment: the distance food travels is vastly
Update: The proposed new location of
the Centre Mall Farmers’Market is
Ottawa St at Cannon. Contact Eat Local
for more information.
Hamilton Eat Local:
905-572-5967
eatlocal@environmenthamilton.org
Hamilton Eat Local's Harvest Breakfast
On October 16th, 2007 Hamilton Eat Local hosted a Harvest Breakfast to mark World Food Day. Hosted at the Bread & Roses Cafe in downtown Hamilton, the breakfast included delicious fare from local producers including: Dearsley's Meats, Puddicombe Estate Farms & Winery, Plan B Organic Farm, Carluke Orchards, and Speakeasy Fair-Trade Organic Coffee Roastery. Hamilton Eat Local's dear friend, Julian Radlein of the Hamilton Tiger Cats attended the breakfast and enjoyed his share of the delicious food.
We collected non-perishable food items for Hamilton Food Share. Thanks to everyone who attended!
Coverage in The Specator on Centre Mall Farmers' Market
Here is the link to an article in The Spectator on the Centre Mall Farmers' Market relocation:
http://www.thespec.com/article/273041
http://www.thespec.com/article/273041
Centre Mall Farmers' Market Petition
If you are interested in signing the petition to retain the Farmers' Market within the redeveloped Centre Mall property it is available online:
http://savecentremall.start-a-petition.com
http://savecentremall.start-a-petition.com
Upcoming Events
Frootogo Orchards' Hayrides
Pumpkin Field, Corn Maze, Petting Zoo
Every Weekend from the end of September to end of October.
Cancer Society Fundraiser, October 28th, 10-3pm
573 Parkside Drive, Waterdown
Contact: (905) 689.1652
Email: bhekman@cogeco.ca
Parkside Farms
Pumpkin Fest: Wagon Tours, Storeybook forest trail, pick your own pumpkins
Month of October
519 Parkside Drive,Waterdown
Contact: (905) 689.4829
Website: www.parksidefarms.com
Email: bendikkeboom@sympatico.ca
Puddicombe Estate Farms & Winery
Halloween Ho-down, October 20,21 & 27,28
1468 #8 Highway, Winona
Contact: (905) 643.1015
Website: www.puddicombefarms.com
Email: info@puddicombefarms.com
National Farmers Union's "Food Down the Road Summit"
November 2-4
St. Lawrence College, Kingston
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
November 2 -11
Exhibition Place, Toronto
Contact: (416) 263.3400
Email: info@royalfair.org
Website: www.royalfair.org
Pumpkin Field, Corn Maze, Petting Zoo
Every Weekend from the end of September to end of October.
Cancer Society Fundraiser, October 28th, 10-3pm
573 Parkside Drive, Waterdown
Contact: (905) 689.1652
Email: bhekman@cogeco.ca
Parkside Farms
Pumpkin Fest: Wagon Tours, Storeybook forest trail, pick your own pumpkins
Month of October
519 Parkside Drive,Waterdown
Contact: (905) 689.4829
Website: www.parksidefarms.com
Email: bendikkeboom@sympatico.ca
Puddicombe Estate Farms & Winery
Halloween Ho-down, October 20,21 & 27,28
1468 #8 Highway, Winona
Contact: (905) 643.1015
Website: www.puddicombefarms.com
Email: info@puddicombefarms.com
National Farmers Union's "Food Down the Road Summit"
November 2-4
St. Lawrence College, Kingston
Royal Agricultural Winter Fair
November 2 -11
Exhibition Place, Toronto
Contact: (416) 263.3400
Email: info@royalfair.org
Website: www.royalfair.org
A long overdue post: KAIROS Conference
On October 12th, Beatrice and I headed to the KAIROS Conference at the Mount Mary Retreat Centre in Ancaster. Beatrice had received an invitation to have a display on the Climate Challenge project and extended the invitation to me. The retreat centre is on a gorgeous property of 200 acres, unfortunately we had to stay indoors with our display.
The weekend included workshops on topics such as: Living off the Grid, Alternative Transportation, and Greening Sacred Spaces. We only attended on Friday night but one of our volunteers provided us with a review of the workshops. For more information check out the Climate Challenge blog at: http://www.hamiltonclimatechallenge.blogspot.com/
Binbrook Fall Fair
This past Saturday, Sarah and I staffed our booth at the Binbrook Fall Fair. Hamilton Wentworth Federation of Agriculture generously sponsored Hamilton Eat Local so that we could hand out more of our local food maps. They also put together a display for us which looked fabulous, especialy the pictures of all our farms!
When we arrived in the morning there was very little foot traffic, especially around the area we were in so we took in the fair sights. Right next to our display was the produce competition where participants entered their biggest vegetable. Pretty impressive I must say!
One of our favourite sights was the goat show. Most of them were very friendly and more than willing to pose for a shot or two which led us to visit them more than once (the second time we brought treats!)
We also took in the miniature horse show which was pretty cute. Not pictured here is the "Costume Division" - I had never seen a horse dressed as a bee before. After that it was the Pet Show where a guinea pig in a yellow dress took home first prize.
Passing on the amusement rides because we both felt nauseous after lunch, we spoke with the political candidates and informed them of our project. The response was fairly enthusiastic.
All in all, a fun day spent at the Binbrook Fair. We handed out more maps, got our message across and even won free hats after acing a Canadian history quiz!
Locke Street Festival
Locke Street was buzzing with activity during September 8th's festival. Environment Hamilton was there promoting our Eat Local project as well as the Climate Challenge - check out their blog! (http://hamiltonclimatechallenge.blogspot.com/)
The festival gave me a chance to check out this part of the city. The weather was perfect and the response from people was fantastic. We handed out 25 energy efficiency kits within the first two hours. Our "If you Ate Today, Thank a Farmer" heading on the display garnered quite a few reactions. I had a couple people thank me personally as well as one man tip his hat and say, "You're welcome dear." The local food issue seems to be really resonating with people.
Summertime corn: How Sweet it is
If you haven't already indulged in sweet corn this August, then now's the time to head down to your local farmers' market or visit one of many sweet corn farmers harvesting just a few minutes away from your home. Sweet corn will be in season for about another seven weeks, lasting right until the end of September.
Many of our local corn farmers grow several varieties. Shearlea Acres of Ancaster, who you can find Fridays and Saturdays at the Centre Mall Farmers' Market, offers sugar-enhanced varieties that will stay fresh and sweet in your refrigerator for up to five days. Cranston Farms, also in Ancaster, has over 19 varieties of yellow, white, and peaches-and-cream corn for you to check out at their 'Sweet Corn Deli'. Ontario corn is some of the best around. Ben Dikkeboom of Parkside Farms in Waterdown claims to have the best sweet corn in the county. "At least that's what my customers tell me," he chuckled.
While the most common way to cook sweet corn is by boiling or steaming the corn, and eating right off the cob, you can try barbecuing corn or roasting it in the oven by wrapping the corn with its husks soaked in cold water, or by removing the husks and wrapping the corn in aluminum foil for protection. Sweet corn also makes and excellent addition to mixed vegetable or rice dishes, salads, and even soup.
Like most vegetables, sweet corn will taste best soon after it's been picked, so why go for corn that's been sitting around in a grocery store bin when there's plenty of fresh Hamilton sweet corn picked daily just down the road? And all for a better price and taste! Hamilton's very lucky to have sweet corn right it our own backyard, so visit the farms or the markets and take advantage of this tasty item from now right through until September. Need help finding local sweet corn? Just grab a copy of the 2007 Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Map, or visit our online food directory available at:
www.environmenthamilton.org/eatlocal
Contributed by: Graham Jenner
Many of our local corn farmers grow several varieties. Shearlea Acres of Ancaster, who you can find Fridays and Saturdays at the Centre Mall Farmers' Market, offers sugar-enhanced varieties that will stay fresh and sweet in your refrigerator for up to five days. Cranston Farms, also in Ancaster, has over 19 varieties of yellow, white, and peaches-and-cream corn for you to check out at their 'Sweet Corn Deli'. Ontario corn is some of the best around. Ben Dikkeboom of Parkside Farms in Waterdown claims to have the best sweet corn in the county. "At least that's what my customers tell me," he chuckled.
While the most common way to cook sweet corn is by boiling or steaming the corn, and eating right off the cob, you can try barbecuing corn or roasting it in the oven by wrapping the corn with its husks soaked in cold water, or by removing the husks and wrapping the corn in aluminum foil for protection. Sweet corn also makes and excellent addition to mixed vegetable or rice dishes, salads, and even soup.
Like most vegetables, sweet corn will taste best soon after it's been picked, so why go for corn that's been sitting around in a grocery store bin when there's plenty of fresh Hamilton sweet corn picked daily just down the road? And all for a better price and taste! Hamilton's very lucky to have sweet corn right it our own backyard, so visit the farms or the markets and take advantage of this tasty item from now right through until September. Need help finding local sweet corn? Just grab a copy of the 2007 Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Map, or visit our online food directory available at:
www.environmenthamilton.org/eatlocal
Contributed by: Graham Jenner
Walden Farm Keeps It Real
"Let us first be as simple and well as Nature ourselves..."
- Henry David Thoreau, Walden
Walden Farm is one of over fifty farms on the 2007 Buy Local! Buy Fresh! Map and is certainly worthy of its name, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance and sustainability. Scott Brooks and his wife, Nikki, offer naturally-raised premium beef from Angus and Angus cross animals raised from birth on their own farm. Nearly all feed is produced on the farm, with the exception of salt and certain mineral supplements necessary for maintaining the health of the animals. It's important to Scott that he offers a homegrown, premium product. "It's higher quality than what you'll find at your local supermarket's meat counter, and it's priced very reasonably," he explained.
Scott and Nikki Brooks, now both semiretired, have been in business for 35 years. While the farm was once a larger dairy operation, the Brooks family now uses their expertise and facilities to produce beef, an operation Scott says makes the most sense for the land they have. They keep their land in forages to preserve the topsoil, and stress the importance of land stewardship. Scott describes himself as very fussy over the treatment of his animals, and is very strict on the use of antibiotics, employing them only when absolutely necessary. "90% of his animals," he boasts, "have never been in contact with a needle."
For those of us who are new to buying locally raised meat straight from the farm, it's important to understand that buying from places like Walden is a little different than purchasing a dozen tomatoes from the market. The Brooks' deal in bulk freezer orders. Customers need to be prepared to purchase at least a quarter of an animal, which works out to between 100 and 120 pounds of meat, a purchase of around $400. Given the quantity of the minimum order, you will need substantial freezer space. Additionally, orders need to be placed in advance; an order placed today wouldn't be filled for another month or two. From time to time there are retail cuts available, but Scott emphasizes that while he will always try to accommodate special requests, Walden Farm is not a small order retailer.
Ordering beef from Walden isn't as difficult as you might think, and there's no doubt you'll be paying less for beef of the very best quality. When asked where one might start if they're considering his product, Scott answered simply, "Call me! Come and visit!" If you are interested in a bulk order with Walden but you don't know where to start, just give Walden Farm a call. The Brooks' have an open door policy, extend a friendly invitation to visit the farm and see the animals, and are happy to answer any questions you might have about consumer-direct bulk orders. Just make sure you schedule your visit in advance.
Find Walden Farm on our map under #32, or use our online directory at http://www.environment/hamilton.org/eatlocalhamilton.org/eatlocal.
Scott and Nikki Brooks
250 Alberton Rd., Jerseyville
905-648-6504
905-648-6504
Contributed by: Graham Jenner
When I was 23....
Below is a contribution from our guest blogger, Jennie Rubio. Enjoy!
When I was 23, I had answers to most of the world’s problems. My solution to climate change was simple: everyone should ride bicycles.
Then I had children. And realized along the way that life is always more complicated than you think.
But I am still interested in the environment, and quite worried about global warming. (I was once involved with publishing the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. I try to follow it still, with my limited understanding of the science. The most recent report, by 600 scientists, warns—eek!!—“the global atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide has increased from a pre-industrial value of about 280 ppm to about 379 ppm.” That’s a lot of ppms!)
It drives me crazy, then, to go shopping and see only tomatoes from Mexico (or wherever). “Here we are,” I want to say, “south of Lake Ontario! Beautiful rich agricultural land as far as they eye can see! I demand to know why we can’t buy local produce!”
But, as always, the answer is: it’s complicated.
I started wondering about starting a business bringing local produce at least to my own community. In my more naïve moments I decided I would measure my success in terms of reduced carbon emissions, not profit. (Meanwhile, here in the real world, that’s not how business works.)
I’ve been asking lots of questions, trying to determine if this idea would even be possible. In Canada, and technically I did know this, we don’t have a very long growing season. Those beautiful field tomatoes you get in the farmer’s market this time of year don’t grow in January. I had a prejudice against greenhouses but I visited one today, and was delighted by those beautiful ruby-red tomatoes, which can be grown at otherwise dreary times of year. However, this is followed by a list of sentences beginning with “but” or “and”. But greenhouses require lots of energy. But new technology is improving this. And greenhouses can use less pesticide. And the growing season is extended. But the tomatoes are more expensive. But they are quite yummy.
All very complicated.
So in my spare time (I already have a job, but I won’t yet give up the idea that this can be done, somehow, if only I ask enough question) I’m reading about tomatoes. I’ve come across some fun facts (tomatoes came to Europe from South America, and for a long time were used for decoration only—Europeans thought that red colour was too sinister to be anything but poisonous. Am I the only one who thought Italy invented tomatoes?! And they used to be called “love apples”—sounds faintly rude! What kind of clientele would I attract with a business named “Love Apples”?); and some boring facts (the genus Lycopersicon is divided into two subgenera, Eulycopersicon and Eriopersicon …).
Can this be done? I hate the idea of people buying local stuff (from me at least) because they feel guilty, so I am determined that the business would need a positive outlook. It’s far too easy to get bogged down in all the complications.
Jennie Rubio
23 August 2007
When I was 23, I had answers to most of the world’s problems. My solution to climate change was simple: everyone should ride bicycles.
Then I had children. And realized along the way that life is always more complicated than you think.
But I am still interested in the environment, and quite worried about global warming. (I was once involved with publishing the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. I try to follow it still, with my limited understanding of the science. The most recent report, by 600 scientists, warns—eek!!—“the global atmospheric concentration of carbon dioxide has increased from a pre-industrial value of about 280 ppm to about 379 ppm.” That’s a lot of ppms!)
It drives me crazy, then, to go shopping and see only tomatoes from Mexico (or wherever). “Here we are,” I want to say, “south of Lake Ontario! Beautiful rich agricultural land as far as they eye can see! I demand to know why we can’t buy local produce!”
But, as always, the answer is: it’s complicated.
I started wondering about starting a business bringing local produce at least to my own community. In my more naïve moments I decided I would measure my success in terms of reduced carbon emissions, not profit. (Meanwhile, here in the real world, that’s not how business works.)
I’ve been asking lots of questions, trying to determine if this idea would even be possible. In Canada, and technically I did know this, we don’t have a very long growing season. Those beautiful field tomatoes you get in the farmer’s market this time of year don’t grow in January. I had a prejudice against greenhouses but I visited one today, and was delighted by those beautiful ruby-red tomatoes, which can be grown at otherwise dreary times of year. However, this is followed by a list of sentences beginning with “but” or “and”. But greenhouses require lots of energy. But new technology is improving this. And greenhouses can use less pesticide. And the growing season is extended. But the tomatoes are more expensive. But they are quite yummy.
All very complicated.
So in my spare time (I already have a job, but I won’t yet give up the idea that this can be done, somehow, if only I ask enough question) I’m reading about tomatoes. I’ve come across some fun facts (tomatoes came to Europe from South America, and for a long time were used for decoration only—Europeans thought that red colour was too sinister to be anything but poisonous. Am I the only one who thought Italy invented tomatoes?! And they used to be called “love apples”—sounds faintly rude! What kind of clientele would I attract with a business named “Love Apples”?); and some boring facts (the genus Lycopersicon is divided into two subgenera, Eulycopersicon and Eriopersicon …).
Can this be done? I hate the idea of people buying local stuff (from me at least) because they feel guilty, so I am determined that the business would need a positive outlook. It’s far too easy to get bogged down in all the complications.
Jennie Rubio
23 August 2007
Last Saturday Sarah and I headed to the Hamilton Farmers’ Market bright and early for their 170th anniversary. It was the perfect venue to hand out more of our local food maps – lots of shoppers eager to find more sources of locally produced food. After making sure the display board wouldn’t fall on us – it was a windy day – we opened shop and began handing out our map.
A crowd gathered almost immediately but, unfortunately, not solely because of the map. The farmers’ market was handing out free market bags and they proved to be a very hot commodity. I couldn’t believe the crowd that gathered around to receive the free loot so we decided to pop a copy of the map into the bags. All 1,000 bags disappeared quickly but, luckily, Sarah and I each scored one for ourselves. People kept asking us if they could have ours. It was pretty funny. Who knew people were so crazy about tote bags. Maybe we should commission some of our own…
Mayor Fred Eisenberger and city councilor Bob Bratina were on hand to open the ceremony with speeches after which spectators dove into the giant anniversary cake.
The highlight of the day was definitely the pie-eating contest even though the idea of consuming an entire apple pie made me feel nauseous. The five participants were neck in neck but the winner managed to scarf down his last few bites first. Me congratulating him made for the perfect photo op.
A crowd gathered almost immediately but, unfortunately, not solely because of the map. The farmers’ market was handing out free market bags and they proved to be a very hot commodity. I couldn’t believe the crowd that gathered around to receive the free loot so we decided to pop a copy of the map into the bags. All 1,000 bags disappeared quickly but, luckily, Sarah and I each scored one for ourselves. People kept asking us if they could have ours. It was pretty funny. Who knew people were so crazy about tote bags. Maybe we should commission some of our own…
Mayor Fred Eisenberger and city councilor Bob Bratina were on hand to open the ceremony with speeches after which spectators dove into the giant anniversary cake.
The highlight of the day was definitely the pie-eating contest even though the idea of consuming an entire apple pie made me feel nauseous. The five participants were neck in neck but the winner managed to scarf down his last few bites first. Me congratulating him made for the perfect photo op.
Next up, we headed down the street to the Makers’ Market in the courtyard of Christ’s Church Cathedral on James Street North. We knew a couple of the vendors and they had agreed to hand out maps for us. The market had a quaint setup with lots to offer. Up for offer were fresh vegetables, fair trade coffee, vintage items, and bike maintenance.
The crafters that were on hand with their artwork, greeting cards, and hand-sewn creations made Sarah and myself vastly inadequate in the creative talent department. Hopefully they won’t mind me buying their goods and passing them off as my own to my family and friends.
The crafters that were on hand with their artwork, greeting cards, and hand-sewn creations made Sarah and myself vastly inadequate in the creative talent department. Hopefully they won’t mind me buying their goods and passing them off as my own to my family and friends.
The next market is scheduled for September 15th. Do NOT miss it!
Bread and Raised in Hamilton - Every Wednesday in August
Don't miss out on this opportunity to sample some of the best food from in and around Hamilton, You'll even get to meet the chef and the farmer.
Wednesday night is the best night to eat out this summer
Ontario-licious: Farm to Table Freshness at Boo's Bistro - every Wednesday from now until September
Boo's Bistro and Wine Bar has launched a new 3 course prix fixe menu that features fresh Ontario produce paired with fine Ontario wines. Coined "Ontario-licious," the concept was developed by executive chef and owner, Vibulan (Boo) Aria, to demonstrate the quality, value and flavour of locally grown, Ontario produce.
Ontario-licious will launch Wednesday, July 11 and will be available each Wednesday throughout July and August. In addition to fresh Ontario-inspired cuisine, general manager and resident wine expert, Thea Weller, will assist diners in complementing Boo's creations with vintages from a variety of award winning Ontario wineries.
The prix fixe menu consists of an appetizer, entrée and dessert and will change each week. Creations may include dishes such as fresh Ontario spinach and zucchini fritters with Woolwich goat cheese and Witteveen bacon; warm Ontario baby spinach salad with chicken, mozzarella, and baby Waterdown potatoes, drizzled with a rosemary balsamic dressing and pavlova with fresh Ontario raspberries and Hewitt's Whipped cream. Prices start at $25 and can include vintage and premium wine selections for an additional $10 to $15.
Contact Thea Weller, General Manager at (905) 296-7598 for full details.
164 James Street South Hamilton, ON L8P 3A2 Tel (905) 296-7598 boo@boosbistro.ca
Boo's Bistro and Wine Bar has launched a new 3 course prix fixe menu that features fresh Ontario produce paired with fine Ontario wines. Coined "Ontario-licious," the concept was developed by executive chef and owner, Vibulan (Boo) Aria, to demonstrate the quality, value and flavour of locally grown, Ontario produce.
Ontario-licious will launch Wednesday, July 11 and will be available each Wednesday throughout July and August. In addition to fresh Ontario-inspired cuisine, general manager and resident wine expert, Thea Weller, will assist diners in complementing Boo's creations with vintages from a variety of award winning Ontario wineries.
The prix fixe menu consists of an appetizer, entrée and dessert and will change each week. Creations may include dishes such as fresh Ontario spinach and zucchini fritters with Woolwich goat cheese and Witteveen bacon; warm Ontario baby spinach salad with chicken, mozzarella, and baby Waterdown potatoes, drizzled with a rosemary balsamic dressing and pavlova with fresh Ontario raspberries and Hewitt's Whipped cream. Prices start at $25 and can include vintage and premium wine selections for an additional $10 to $15.
Contact Thea Weller, General Manager at (905) 296-7598 for full details.
164 James Street South Hamilton, ON L8P 3A2 Tel (905) 296-7598 boo@boosbistro.ca
Hey Hamilton! Eat Local!
Hey Hamilton! Eat Local!
Local farmers are now on the map
It just got a whole lot easier to eat locally grown food in Hamilton this summer. This morning Hamilton Eat Local, a project by Environment Hamilton, launched the first annual Hamilton Eat Local Map at the Centre Mall Farmers’ Market on Friday July 13th. The map illustrates the exact locations of over 50 farms and farm markets in and around the city of Hamilton that sell their fruits, vegetables, meats and other edibles directly to consumers.
“A lot of people express an interest in eating locally grown food purchased from real farmers, but it’s not always easy to find” explained project manager Sarah Megens. “We’ve solved this problem by developing a local food map that shows exactly where people can go in and around the city to buy direct from farmers.”
“Eating locally grown food makes so much sense. Not only is it fresher, and therefore healthier and tastier, but it is also better for the environment and makes a solid investment in the local rural economy that’s badly needed.”
A recent study conducted by Toronto’s FoodShare estimated that the average piece of produce sold at a supermarket in Toronto travels 5364km from field to fork, whereas the goods from a similar food basket sold at the neighbouring farmers’ market traveled on
average 101km.[1] “You can see that simply by eating locally, we are taking a lot of pressure off the environment through reducing our greenhouse gas emissions associated to food. It’s a very empowering way to make a difference,” says Environment Hamilton’s executive director Lynda Lukasik.
While Winona is known for peaches, Hamilton actually boasts a large variety of local fruits, vegetables and meat products sold straight from the farm during every season. “We’re lucky because we can buy local food year-round in Hamilton and most other regions don’t have the luxury of variety that we do.” Hamilton’s local agricultural sector offers plenty of opportunity for day trips into the countryside. By visiting farms and getting to know our local food producers, people can learn more about farming and food; something the farming community says is required. “I’m often surprised at how little people actually know about farming. Sometimes I think we’re taken for granted,” says Megens, born and raised on a farm herself. “I plan to help change that.”
30,000 copies of the map will be available throughout the city and countryside at the Centre Mall Farmers’ Market, the Hamilton Farmers’ Market, farm stands and markets, Tourism Hamilton kiosks, the Environment Hamilton office, the Winona Peach Fest, the three rural fall fairs, a couple Hamilton Tiger-Cats games and various other special events and celebrations throughout the city this summer.
The map launch event included short presentations by Sarah Megens, project manager of Hamilton Eat Local; Carol Puddicombe of Puddicombe’s Estate and Winery; Cherie Inksetter of Carluke Orchards; and Lynda Lukasik, executive director of Environment Hamilton.
[1] Stephen Bentley and Ravenna Barker, Fighting Global Warming at the Farmers’ Market: The Role of Local Food Systems in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions. A FoodShare Research in Action Report, April, 2005
Local farmers are now on the map
It just got a whole lot easier to eat locally grown food in Hamilton this summer. This morning Hamilton Eat Local, a project by Environment Hamilton, launched the first annual Hamilton Eat Local Map at the Centre Mall Farmers’ Market on Friday July 13th. The map illustrates the exact locations of over 50 farms and farm markets in and around the city of Hamilton that sell their fruits, vegetables, meats and other edibles directly to consumers.
“A lot of people express an interest in eating locally grown food purchased from real farmers, but it’s not always easy to find” explained project manager Sarah Megens. “We’ve solved this problem by developing a local food map that shows exactly where people can go in and around the city to buy direct from farmers.”
“Eating locally grown food makes so much sense. Not only is it fresher, and therefore healthier and tastier, but it is also better for the environment and makes a solid investment in the local rural economy that’s badly needed.”
A recent study conducted by Toronto’s FoodShare estimated that the average piece of produce sold at a supermarket in Toronto travels 5364km from field to fork, whereas the goods from a similar food basket sold at the neighbouring farmers’ market traveled on
average 101km.[1] “You can see that simply by eating locally, we are taking a lot of pressure off the environment through reducing our greenhouse gas emissions associated to food. It’s a very empowering way to make a difference,” says Environment Hamilton’s executive director Lynda Lukasik.
While Winona is known for peaches, Hamilton actually boasts a large variety of local fruits, vegetables and meat products sold straight from the farm during every season. “We’re lucky because we can buy local food year-round in Hamilton and most other regions don’t have the luxury of variety that we do.” Hamilton’s local agricultural sector offers plenty of opportunity for day trips into the countryside. By visiting farms and getting to know our local food producers, people can learn more about farming and food; something the farming community says is required. “I’m often surprised at how little people actually know about farming. Sometimes I think we’re taken for granted,” says Megens, born and raised on a farm herself. “I plan to help change that.”
30,000 copies of the map will be available throughout the city and countryside at the Centre Mall Farmers’ Market, the Hamilton Farmers’ Market, farm stands and markets, Tourism Hamilton kiosks, the Environment Hamilton office, the Winona Peach Fest, the three rural fall fairs, a couple Hamilton Tiger-Cats games and various other special events and celebrations throughout the city this summer.
The map launch event included short presentations by Sarah Megens, project manager of Hamilton Eat Local; Carol Puddicombe of Puddicombe’s Estate and Winery; Cherie Inksetter of Carluke Orchards; and Lynda Lukasik, executive director of Environment Hamilton.
[1] Stephen Bentley and Ravenna Barker, Fighting Global Warming at the Farmers’ Market: The Role of Local Food Systems in Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions. A FoodShare Research in Action Report, April, 2005
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