SAULT STE. MARIE – The popular Canada Food Guide was updated this year for the first time in more than a decade.
Some big changes were made, and those involved in the northern agricultural industry have been discussing what it means for the region.
"There's less emphasis on dairy and meats, and I think that was a bit disappointing," said Ron Bonnett, Farm Product Council of Canada.
"The recommendations, I think, in some respect have been focused on the kind of negatives aspect of the foods that are grown in the north, and that's really about the disconnect between the guide and what's here," said Mike Delfre, Harvest Algoma.
A lot of meat and dairy is produced in the north, and with the food guide recommending smaller portions, those northern suppliers know they need to break into other markets to stay successful.
"We serve about 20 restaurants in Sault Ste. Marie, and another half a dozen in Sudbury. We would really like to concentrate more on growing the northern Ontario market, but we also have to keep in mind that to be sustainable, we need to help other people across the province," said Nicholas Gordon, Penokean Hill Farms.
However, organizers believe the use of technology could extend the harvest season in the north.
Trends down south are also encouraging local farmers.
"As arable land in southern Ontario declines, the north will be looked at and has begun to be looked at as more of a source for a broader range of agricultural production," explained Delfre.
"On the vegetable side, I think there could be some opportunity. One of the things we need to look at is, do we have processing facilities where we can fast freeze some of those vegetable that are produced in the summertime," said Bonnett.
The 'Bring Food Home' conference was also being hosted in Ottawa and live-streamed with Sault Ste. Marie.
