Consumers can pick the best home-grown food in Manitoba Fields: Wowchuck

July 17, 2008

CONSUMERS CAN PICK THE BEST HOME-GROWN FOOD FRESH FROM FARMERS’ MARKETS, IN MANITOBA FIELDS: WOWCHUK

Whether a resident of Manitoba or are just stopping by to enjoy the best the province has to offer, choose fresh food at any of Manitoba’s farmers markets or U-Pick sites for a healthy treat everyone can enjoy, Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives Minister Rosann Wowchuk said today.

“Thanks to recent rains and warm weather, fresh produce is starting to arrive at Manitoba’s farmers’ markets throughout the province and the U-Pick operations have begun to open their gates,” said Wowchuk. “These locations are the perfect settings to showcase fresh fruits and vegetables, baked goods, jams and jellies, herbs and artisan items, promote our friendly communities and meet the people who produce some of the best food anywhere.”

The minister noted that buying local foods at farmers’ markets and U-Pick operations supports the provincial economy and many family businesses. It also encourages healthy food choices and gives consumers the opportunity to meet local producers who provide and process many of Manitoba’s home-grown quality products.

In support of farmers’ markets and U-Pick businesses, the province, in collaboration with the newly formed Farmers’ Markets Association of Manitoba Co-op, has produced the 2008 U-Pick Guide and the 2008 Farmers’ Market Guide. These brochures are available at all Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Initiatives GO offices and online at www.gov.mb.ca/agriculture/food/upick/markets.html.