Canadians who’ve tried plant-based burgers like the taste, but a significant proportion question whether they can stomach the cost. Survey results released this week by the Angus Reid Institute indicate 80% of consumers who’ve tried them enjoyed the taste of plant-based meats. However, 41% say the meat alternatives gave “poor” or “terrible” value for money. …
NEWS
Clean plants build confidence
A certified supply of clean plants was the key to cleaning up New Zealand vineyards and keeping vine diseases at bay, says Vaughn Bell, senior scientist with the New Zealand Institute for Plant and Food Research. Bell was in the Okanagan last week as the featured speaker in this year’s Triggs International Premium Vinifera Lecture …
Cherry exports get boost
Rains have delivered significant damage to the BC cherry crop this summer, limiting the volume of fruit heading to market. But this week brought $241,000 worth of federal support for international marketing efforts under the Canadian Agricultural Partnership’s AgriMarketing Program. The funding, announced by federal justice minister David Lametti during a visit to Kelowna on …
Cash for innovation
Projects focused on bees, barrels and mushroom harvesting have won $150,000 in the province’s second Agritech Innovation Challenge. The challenges three winners were announced August 2 following an assessment by Innovate BC and the BC Ministry of Agriculture. The winning projects each receive $50,000, mentorship and the support needed to validate relevant market demand. The …
Citizen scientists wanted
Ottawa is looking for BC farmers to tell them which way the wind is blowing – literally. Agriculture and Agri-food Canada is seeking agroclimate impact reporters to complete a monthly survey regarding weather conditions in their area. The survey takes less than five minutes to complete and helps federal staff identify climate and weather-related risks …
Province talks meat licensing
Small-scale meat producers have won an extension to the latest provincial consultation on meat inspection regulations. The new exercise requests proposals for new Class D regions or subregions, and began with outreach to local governments on June 3. The initial deadline was July 19, but the Small-Scale Meat Producers Association (SSMPA) fought to have that …