Food security in Ontario: Agri-food sector strong during COVID-19 pandemic

In the midst of the coronavirus pandemic, the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA) is reassuring Ontarians about the strength and safety of the local food supply system.                         Despite consumer concerns with availability, Canadian and Ontario products continue to be produced, processed and distributed through our food distribution networks across the province. However, to help ease immediate short-term supply pressures, OFA is urging consumers to practice normal grocery buying habits with the assurance that fresh and processed products will continue to be made available.

The announcement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the provincial statement on March 14 by Ministers Ernie Hardeman and Christine Elliott provide additional reassurances of public health protection measures and business continuity support. The food supply system in Ontario, and across Canada, is well equipped – even in times of crisis – to continue providing healthy, safe, and affordable food. Ontario’s food distribution system will continue stocking grocery store shelves and our food supply chain can handle the additional pressures put on it as a result of the current health crisis.