First National Local Food Day Declared in Canada

October 9, 2009 - The Canadian Federation of Agriculture calls on consumers across the country to join farmers in celebrating and supporting the first national "Local Food Day," officially declared today by Randy Kamp, MP for Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge-Mission, British Columbia.

"Agriculture is a key industry for Canadians for its contribution to the economy, for its role in sustaining rural communities, for food security and for its contributions to health and the environment said CFA President, Laurent Pellerin.

"Canadians continue to receive high quality food produced at the highest food safety and environmental standards because of farmers and their initiatives on their farms and that is worth a day of recognition," said Pellerin.

While Canadian farmers still provide some of the most affordable food in the world, the amount that returns to the farm gate is relatively small. The Farmers' Share, a recent study commissioned by the CFA's members showed that, on average, only 27 per cent of the cost of an entire week's worth of groceries for a family of four goes back to the farms where the food is produced.

CFA reminds Canadians that choosing locally-produced foods helps to cuts down on the transportation cost, reduces the impact on the environment and re-invests in the local economy.

"It is in all Canadians best interest to ensure the Canadian agri-food industry remains strong and continues to contribute to the benefit of all Canadians into the future. When farmers prosper, we all prosper," said Pellerin. "When you are out at the grocery store this Thanksgiving, we urge you to ask for locally sourced products and support your local farmer."