October 7, 2009
Time is Ripe for Picking the Best of B.C. Products

PARKSVILLE–  The fall harvest is underway and British Columbians are encouraged to take advantage of B.C.’s bounty of fresh  food as the time for holiday meals approaches.

“It’s a great time to get out and connect with our local farmers,” says Parksville-Qualicum MLA Ron Cantelon. “I encourage all Oceanside residents to join me in purchasing foods that have travelled a minimal distance to make it to our homes and support our local farmers to boost our economy.”

With over 225 agricultural commodities and countless more products available, B.C. has the most diverse agriculture sector in Canada. This diversity means people can source local foods and goods to provide for their holiday weekend meals.

“Knowing where your food comes from builds quality relationships between consumers and farmers,” says Minister of Agriculture and Lands Steve Thomson. “As someone who grew up on a family farm I know the value of this relationship to maintaining a thriving agricultural economy throughout the province.”

A visit to a local farm market allows consumers to choose fresh produce and find locally-made foods like jams, juices and sauces. It also means more of a family’s food dollars go to the people who work to produce the food, while directly benefitting the local economy.

This Thanksgiving, make a healthy and sustainable choice by buying local. Consumers are reminded to actively seek out their local producers, or look for labels at the supermarket indicating a product’s origins in B.C.

To find your local farms, visit www.gov.bc.ca/al and click on the Farm Fresh B.C. Products button or visit www.bcfarmfresh.com.

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