News Release

SAINT ANDREWS (GNB) – The 2015 Buy Local Initiative got off to a delicious start in Saint Andrews on May 23 thanks to the food creations featured at the Flavours New Brunswick dinner held at the local campus of the New Brunswick Community College.

“The idea of choosing local food and beverage products is a growing movement,” said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet, who participated in the official launch. “We want to reach out to those who wish to learn more about the products being made in their own communities. With the growing popularity of food tourism, Buy Local also presents a perfect opportunity to showcase our local growers and producers, farmers’ markets and food festivals. We appreciate the co-operation of the organizers of Flavours New Brunswick in helping us launch this important initiative.”

Flavours New Brunswick showcased creations using New Brunswick food and beverage products. The creations were designed by local chefs and hospitality students from New Brunswick Community College – Saint Andrews Campus. It is one of several special events on the Buy Local tour taking place from now through mid-October throughout the province.

Buy Local tour co-ordinators will provide visitors with brochures, maps and recipes. A survey will be available later during the campaign to engage New Brunswickers on their thoughts about local food and beverages. The data will be used to assist in the development of a local food and beverage strategy.

“This strategy is an important commitment we have made to our local growers and producers,” said Doucet. “Consumers will have an important role to play and that is why I encourage them to complete the survey when it becomes available. The information will complement our upcoming engagement with stakeholders on the development of the strategy.”

Information on the event and the tour schedule, as well as recipes and special features, are available online.