Canada's best meats and beverages have garnered increased international attention with the support of the Harper Government. The Canada Brand Meat Ball, a promotional event to showcase Canadian food and drink, has brought top chefs and reporters from around the world to Southern Alberta to learn more about Canada's high-quality beef, bison, and elk meats; canola; and beverages.
"Canadian agriculture produces world-class food and beverages, and this showcase helps us highlight the top-quality products that Canada has to offer customers around the world," said Member of Parliament Blake Richards (Wild Rose), on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz. "By putting our agricultural products in the spotlight, the Harper Government is helping boost exports for our farmers and grow the Canadian economy."
The first-ever Canada Brand Meat Ball, which ran from September 16 to 19, has raised the profile of Canadian meats and beverages by providing a unique opportunity for international chefs and journalists to gain first-hand knowledge of Canada's diverse food products made with high-quality ingredients. Eight chefs and five journalists took part in the promotion, representing important markets in China, Hong Kong, Taiwan, the United Arab Emirates, Switzerland, Austria, Belgium, and Italy.
Throughout the week, the delegation met with local meat producers, toured a local brewery, learned more about Canada's exemplary food safety standards and world-class genetics, enjoyed classic Canadian cuisine, and celebrated some of the best foods that Canada has to offer.
This event was organized through Canada Brand, a Harper Government initiative that is building a stronger brand for Canadian food and agriculture in international markets. Funded through the Agricultural Flexibility Fund, the Canada Brand initiative is designed to complement industry efforts in markets where challenges or opportunities exist and includes a variety of marketing activities, such as advertising, retail in-store activities, and restaurant promotions. For more information about the Canada Brand, please visit www.marquecanadabrand.agr.gc.ca.
