Buy Local Food and Produce This Holiday Season

Monday, 9 December 2019 10:58

Ontarians are being encouraged to shop for local food, produce and goods ahead of the holiday season.

ONTARIO - With the holiday season coming up, people are encouraged to shop local when buying food and beverages.

Shopping local for Ontario-grown and produced food and other goods can make your preparations simple and support local businesses and farmers throughout the province.

As we prepare to celebrate the holidays,

As people prepare to celebrate, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs, Ernie Hardeman is encouraging everyone to choose local Ontario foods and products as a part of their festivities.

"When you celebrate this holiday season, I encourage you to support hardworking Ontario farmers by choosing Ontario grown and made food for your family, friends and all your loved ones. Giving the gift of local this holiday supports our farmers, our producers and our economy."

Ontario produces approximately 200 different commodities across the province. Another way to shop local is by purchasing an Ontario-grown Christmas tree from one of your local Christmas Tree Farms.

The province says it's easy to fill your holiday plans with locally grown and made food and drinks. Some of the following fun ideas suggested include:

A few fun ideas include:

- Shopping for local turkey, prime rib and vegetables at a farmers' market, on-farm markets, butcher shops and grocery stores
- Decorating your home with fresh, seasonal greenery and flowers
- Picking up delicious treats like Ontario maple syrup and honey for easy hosting gifts
- Meeting with friends at restaurants dedicated to local fare
- Celebrating responsibly with Ontario craft beer, cider and VQA wines
- Indulging with locally made delectable treats like Ferrero Rocher or local baked goods.
- Foodland Ontario has the latest recipes and entertaining tips on to celebrate the holiday season. Follow them on Instagram and Facebook to find your family's new favourite holiday recipe.

To learn more about what produce and food is available from Ontario Foodland, visit their food guide here.