PUTNAM, ON – Canada's agricultural sector is a trusted global leader in safe, nutritious, and sustainable food. The Government is committed to helping the sector meet its potential to be an even stronger economic engine for the Canadian economy and sets an ambitious target to grow agri-food exports.
Member of Parliament Peter Fragiskatos (London North Centre), on behalf of Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food Lawrence MacAulay, today announced an investment of up to $265,375 to help Mushrooms Canada promote and educate Canadian consumers on the nutritional benefits of fresh mushrooms, as well as to conduct a market development assessment of the Japanese market.
Mushrooms Canada's Blend and Extend campaign promotes incorporating mushrooms in meat dishes to bring another serving of vegetables to the plate, add volume to meals, and extend portions. Mushrooms Canada has partnered with beef producers to promote the campaign.
Quotes
"The Government of Canada proudly supports Mushrooms Canada to develop and capture new markets both in Canada and abroad. This investment will help promote healthy food choices for consumers, support economic prosperity for Canada'smushroom growers and processors, create jobs and foster long-term growth for the sector and all Canadians."
– Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament for London North Centre
"This investment allows Mushrooms Canada to study the Japanese market potential for Canadian mushrooms; in addition to increasing the domestic consumption through the promotion of the blend-ability of mushrooms into meat protein dishes already loved and consumed in Canada."
– Ryan Koeslag, Executive Vice President, Mushrooms Canada
Quick Facts
- The mushroom industry generates $417 million annually.
- Canada is among the world's top exporters of mushrooms – totalling over $220 million in 2016.
- Canadian Mushroom Growers Association/Mushrooms Canada is a non-profit organization founded in 1955, comprised of mushroom growers, processors, spawn makers, suppliers, scientists and other related industries dedicated to the production and marketing of fresh mushrooms in Canada.
- This contribution is made through the Growing Forward 2, AgriMarketing Program, a five-year, $341?million initiative.
Additional links
Growing Forward 2 (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
AgriMarketing Program (Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada)
Mushrooms Canada
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Source: Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada
