Locally Produced Food-- A Way to Healthier Eating

Source: Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food

Have you ever tasted a Saskatchewan-grown cantaloupe? What about a locally grown tomato? The flavour is exceptional. There are a number of ways in which consumers can experience the flavour of Saskatchewan, according to Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food Provincial Vegetable Crops Specialist Connie Achtymichuk, even if they don’t have a garden.

“Many communities have farmers’ markets," she says, "but another initiative that has just been started is a web-based local food directory. The project is in its early stages, but the idea is to connect local producers with local consumers. There are a number of groups involved, but the lead is Dr. Daryl Hepting, a professor at the University of Regina's computer sciences department. Dr. Hepting has already started a discussion group to find out who is interested, and to collect ideas. Provided funding can be accessed, the project will go ahead this year.”

This project, along with other forms of direct marketing, will enable the Saskatchewan vegetable industry to expand, says Achtymichuk.

“The industry is small, and the growing season is short. This makes it difficult for Saskatchewan’s vegetable producers to break into traditional markets, but the quality and flavour of the vegetables being grown is exceptional. Because of Saskatchewan’s climate, there are very few pests that damage vegetable crops.”

Most vegetables, therefore, are grown with little or no pesticides. Organically grown produce is also available.

“The Canada Food Guide encourages eating five to 10 servings of fruit and vegetables a day, so why not try produce from a local garden?" she asks. "Not only are there health benefits in doing so, but consider picking up vegetables from a local garden: what a good way to expose children to where their food comes from. Develop a relationship with the person who grows your food, and they’ll be willing to fill requests if you want something that they don’t have.”

By buying locally, everybody wins. The producer has a market that commands a fair price, and the consumer gets to enjoy vegetables at their peak freshness.

“You’ll also be doing your part to protect the environment, considering the fact that most of the produce you buy has been trucked great distances.”

For more information, contact:

Connie Achtymichuk
Provincial Specialist, Vegetable Crops
Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food
(306) 787-2755