Introduction

Local food is at the heart of Ontario’s agri-food industry. Ontario has a rich history of agriculture and 60% of food produced here is consumed right in Ontario.

Buying and supporting local food creates jobs and economic growth, and local food businesses are a major contributor to the province's economic well-being.

Shop local and celebrate Local Food Week the first week of every June.

Local food near you

Foodland Ontario

Learn about the local foods grown in Ontario, see what’s in season and find recipes.

Feast On

Find a restaurant near you serving Ontario food on their menu.

Ontario Farm Fresh Marketing Association

Find an on-farm market or pick-your-own operation near you to purchase Ontario food.

Farmers’ Markets Ontario

Find a farmers’ market near you to purchase Ontario food.

For businesses and organizations

Community food program donation tax credit for farmers

Tax credit for Ontario farmers who donate agricultural products to eligible community food programs.

Broader Public Sector Champions Program

Learn how you can get a certificate of recognition for tracking and reporting on your local food purchases.

Ontariofresh.ca

Online platform for connecting vendors with other businesses and consumers interested in purchasing local food.

For schools and educators

  • Fresh from the Farm

    Innovative program that allows schools to fundraise by selling bundles of Ontario fruits and vegetables.

  • AgScape

    Curriculum-linked food literacy programs and resources for Ontario's educators and students.

  • Country Heritage Park

    Curriculum-based educational programs for Ontario students.

Local Food Act

The Local Food Act, 2013, was created to:

  • help foster successful and resilient local food economies and systems
  • help increase awareness of local food and diversity of it
  • develop new markets for local food

Goals and targets

Local food literacy aspirational goals

Learn about Ontario’s goals and targets to improve food literacy with respect to local food.

Local food access aspirational goals

Learn about Ontario’s goals and targets to increase access to local food.

Public sector local food procurement aspirational goal

Learn about Ontario’s goals and targets to increase the procurement of local food by public sector institutions.