Ontario Tender Fruit News

News Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

St. Catharines, ON - September 14, 2023 - The Ontario Fresh Grape Growers Marketing Board (OFGGMB) is thrilled to announce a significant boost in its efforts to promote locally grown table grapes as the provincial government commits up to $39,600 through the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. This investment will facilitate a project that is expected to advance sector growth and development through instore sampling of novel and existing grape varieties, an industry tour, and a focus on sustainable packaging solutions.

Sampling events will be held at major grocery retailers across the province, offering a diverse range of consumers the opportunity to savour the exceptional flavours of two local blue grape varieties - the renowned Sovereign Coronation and the exciting newcomer Jupiter. Consumers will not only experience the unique and vibrant taste of Ontario blue grapes, but play a pivotal role in shaping the future commercialization of new varieties through their invaluable feedback.

"We are immensely grateful for the Provincial Government's ongoing commitment to the development and marketing of Ontario table grapes," said Sarah Marshall, manager of OFGGMB. "This funding not only supports our project's initiatives but also emphasizes the importance of sustaining local agriculture and reducing our reliance on imports."

(Sovereign Coronation Grapes. Photo supplied by Ontario Fresh Grape Growers)

A key element of the project is its emphasis on sustainability. OFGGMB will use this opportunity to showcase sustainable packaging options for Ontario grapes which have been developed with the help of other provincial government funding. This aligns with the project’s broader goal of enhancing public trust through reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible practices within the industry.

“Ontario’s grape growers produce some of the best grapes available world-wide,” said Lisa Thompson, Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs. “And through this initiative, more Ontarians will be able to try these delicious grapes and make them a household staple. It’s one of the many ways our government is encouraging people across the province to support and buy products that are grown right here at home.”

The project will also feature an industry tour where stakeholders will have the opportunity to provide feedback on the commercial viability of new table grape varieties currently under development. This collaborative approach ensures that the Ontario grape industry remains responsive to consumer preferences and market demands, while also advancing innovation within the sector.

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