Specialty foods have different regulatory needs from mainstream products: report Wednesday, March 7, 2012 by DAVE PINK Canada’s specialty food industry needs a little more understanding from government, according to a just-released report commissioned by Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and prepared by the Value Chain Management Centre. “The major response from those in the industry is that government is more of an obstacle than a service provider,” says Martin Gooch, a director with the Value Chain Management Centre. Gooch says specialty items exist in all food sectors, but are just a little bit different than mainstream products. They could be items that appeal only to ethnic shoppers, or products that cater to the needs of those with allergies or those on doctor-stipulated diets. “There is a need to provide a more objective and informed platform for government and industry to develop a more effective specialty food system,” he says. “This is about how we can enable innovation to respond to consumer demand. “Most of the regulations now in effect are not designed for specialty foods, but for mainstream commodities,” adds Gooch. “This is not at all about reducing food safety standards,” he says. It’s about bringing Canadian standards in line with internationally accepted standards to more easily accommodate importers. The industry is also asking for more government support with its market intelligence and consumer research. “With immigration and changing diets there are so many factors that are driving change in the food industry,” says Gooch. BF Lucan farm family's creative efforts generate public interest Ontario dairy farmers celebrate top score
New CEO for Livestock Research Innovation Corporation Friday, September 13, 2024 Livestock Research Innovation Corporation (LRIC) is promoting from within with the appointment of the organization’s newest Chief Executive Officer. Industry Services Manager Kelly Somerville has been tapped to assume the role as of September 3, replacing retiring CEO Mike McMorris.... Read this article online
Milwaukee Extended Anvil High Torque Impact Wrench Thursday, September 12, 2024 Measuring torque is a common on-farm task it can sometimes be a challenge to accomplish this for multiple and varied pieces of equipment, that where Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL™ 1" D-Handle Ext. Anvil High Torque Impact Wrench w/ ONE-KEY™ can provide value. Cordless tools create convenience,... Read this article online
Ontario and Feds look to strengthen the provincial agri-food sector Monday, September 9, 2024 The governments of Canada and Ontario have announced they will be investing an additional $3.5 million in the Ontario Agri-Food Research Initiative (OAFRI) to support the development and adoption of new technologies for farmers, food processors, and agribusinesses that will enhance... Read this article online
The Great Ontario Yield Tour predicts a record-breaking soybean crop Friday, September 6, 2024 The Great Ontario Yield Tour is predicting the 2024 Ontario soybean yield will be 54.12 bu/ac—a NEW RECORD high surpassing the previous record of 53 bu/ac set last year. If the prediction is correct, it will be the best soybean crop ever produced in Ontario!... Read this article online
IPM needs volunteers Thursday, September 5, 2024 The International Plowing Match & Rural Expo 2024 (IPM) could use a helping hand for volunteers. The IPM is being held this year in Lindsay, Kawartha Lakes, Ontario, between October 1 and 5, 2024. While we are aware that the majority of the popular event is being held during... Read this article online