Statement from Minister John Streicker on Food Day Canada

Minister John Streicker has issued the following statement:

“August 5 is Food Day Canada: a day to celebrate the local food producers behind your favourite meals.

“Yukon’s fresh produce is at its best right now. I encourage Yukoners to seek out homegrown products at a community or farmers’ market, or at your local grocery store. It’s a great way to support the Yukon’s farmers and food producers who work hard to put food on our tables.

“Food Day Canada is also an opportunity to applaud local chefs, food researchers and home cooks. It’s a great reminder to visit local retailers and restaurants that offer Yukon food products or use local ingredients on their menus. There are also many Yukon chefs and foodies willing to share recipe ideas so Yukoners can try cooking a new meal using local ingredients.

“Food security and sustainable food systems are critically important. Through Cultivating Our Future, we are directly supporting the continued growth of the Yukon’s agriculture sector and our ability to be more self-sufficient in our food production over the next decade.  If you find a Yukon Grown sticker on a product, know that you are directly supporting Yukon farmers, food producers and local businesses.

“Food Day Canada is a grassroots movement that is celebrated annually throughout Canada. It was founded by the late Anita Stewart, Member of the Order of Canada , in 2003 as a show of support for Canadian farmers. This year, Food Day Canada is celebrating its 20th anniversary across Canada.

“Food is more than what we eat. Regional foods and local cuisines are foundational to our cultures and identities and sharing a recipe or a meal is a great way to foster community connections and celebrate neighbours. Let’s gather with family and friends this weekend to enjoy delicious Yukon-grown foods and thank those who feed us.”