Should Alberta Define and Celebrate Local Food?

Official title: Local food engagement

Closed Legislation Agriculture & Food Economy & Jobs
Alberta asked residents how to support the growing local food industry. The government wanted input on defining 'local food,' creating a Local Food Week, and setting standards for organic products sold within the province. This consultation led to the Supporting Alberta's Local Food Sector Act, passed in May 2018.

Why This Matters

Shop at farmers' markets? Care about knowing where your food comes from? This shaped how Alberta defines and promotes local food. The $1 billion local food industry affects farmers, vendors, and anyone who buys Alberta-grown products.

What Could Change

The consultation resulted in new legislation. Alberta now has an official definition of 'local food' as food grown, made, or harvested in Alberta. A Local Food Week was established. Organic products sold within Alberta must meet federal certification standards. A Local Food Council was created to advise government.

Key Issues

  • How should 'local food' be officially defined in Alberta?
  • Should Alberta designate a Local Food Week?
  • Should farmers' market managers and vendors have enhanced food safety training?
  • Should federal organic certification requirements apply to products sold within Alberta?

How to Participate

  1. This consultation is now closed. The engagement took place in early 2018 and gathered input from Albertans and local food industry stakeholders.
  2. Learn about the outcome by reviewing the Local Food Council that was created as a result.

What Happened

The Supporting Alberta's Local Food Sector Act was passed on May 30, 2018. The legislation directly reflected stakeholder feedback and included: setting standards for local organic food, designating a Local Food Week, and creating a Local Food Council to advise government on local food matters.