Bringing More Ontario Meat To The Dinner Table - McGuinty Government Strengthens Agri-Food Industry, Supports Farmers

Ontario is helping to encourage more families to buy local meat.
With the support of the Ontario Market Investment Fund, the Ontario Independent Meat Processors organization is working to bring more Ontario meat to the table through:

• new recipes, consumer sampling and trials at retail outlets
• participation at industry trade shows
• the Ontario Finest Meat Competition - a first ever this year showcasing the high quality meat and poultry products available in Ontario

Supporting local food helps to build a strong agri-food industry and is part of the McGuinty government's plan to create jobs and opportunities that will grow the province's economy.

QUOTES

"When we buy Ontario, everyone wins. It's good for our farmers, the economy and the environment. With this initiative, we're strengthening ties between communities, local farmers and food. This summer I encourage everyone to visit their local farmers market and bring more of the good things that grow in Ontario home to their table."
- Carol Mitchell, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs

"Getting more Ontario meat on our tables will mean better bottom lines for processors and producers in Guelph and across the province."
- Liz Sandals, MPP for Guelph

"We are very grateful for the provincial government's support in promoting our high-quality meat products to consumers."
- Joe Abate, President, Ontario Independent Meat Processors

QUICK FACTS

• The Ontario Market Investment Fund has provided more than $9.5 million to 191 local marketing projects across the province since 2008.
• The agri-food industry contributes more than $33 billion to the Ontario economy and employs about 700,000 people.
• Ontario's meat processing industry has annual sales of more than $6.8 billion which represents 20 per cent of all food and beverage manufacturing shipments in the province.

LEARN MORE

About the Ontario Market Investment Fund program, and the type of projects it supports.
About the Ontario Independent Meat Processors.