The Grower January 2014 by The Grower

CELEBRATING 134 YEARS AS CANADA’S PREMIER HORTICULTURAL PUBLICATION

JANUARY 2014

VOLUME 64 NUMBER 01

LEADERSHIP

How to break bread with politicians? Become one KAREN DAVIDSON Where politics is involved, it would be easy to let Laz-Y-Boy cynicism take over. That’s not what three horticultural farmers have done in the face of increasing regulatory burdens and land use issues. Rather than accept crumbs, they ran for a slice at the political table. The first example is Mark Wales. The garlic and vegetable grower is best known as president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture (OFA). But he also relishes his role as municipal councillor for Malahide Township near Alymer, Ontario. In that position, he comes face to face with taxpayers, and he’s quick to say there’s only one taxpayer to support all levels of government. This local perspective offers the real rub on urban-rural issues. Consider that Canada’s population topped 35 million last fall. According to the last census, 81 per cent of our population is now considered urban. Less than 300,00 citizens call themselves farmers. It’s becoming more difficult for agriculture’s voice to be heard by public policy makers. “One of the biggest challenges numerically is that farmers represent such a small slice of the population – about one per cent in Canada -- and in the horticultural sector, it’s even smaller,” says Wales. Speaking

INSIDE Marketing trends for 2014

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Of Canada’s 35 million people, less than one per cent or 300,000 are farmers. Few agricultural voices sit at political tables these days, whether it’s municipal, provincial or federal. Since becoming a municipal councillor three years ago, Avia Eek is making a difference in the conversation between agricultural, rural and urban citizens. Along with her husband Bill, she farms carrots and onions in Ontario’s Holland Marsh, a sensitive area governed by multiple layers of legislation. Photo by Glenn Lowson.

from his OFA perch, he says: “All of agriculture has to come to the table with one voice. When you fracture the voice, it offers government the opportunity to do nothing or to do something to us.” During his many years in farm politics, Wales says that the winds are more favourable for being heard right now, certainly at the provincial level. Consumers are more aware of locally produced food, and the recently passed Local Food Act will be important in strengthening that bond. With a premier who also wears the ag minister’s hat, there’s more receptivity to proposals such as natural gas infrastructure for rural areas. He’s also encouraged that all provincial parties are backing off a minimum wage increase. Avia Eek is discovering the same political trends in the Holland Marsh, where she has farmed carrots and onions with husband Bill for 25 years. Three years ago, she traded her boots

for heels as the elected representative of ward six in King Township. “I used to be one of those status quo people,” says Eek, who started her career as a legal secretary. “I was never vocal.” But the seeds of activism took root as she started writing letters to the editor. Through that exercise, she also found her public voice. Eek has never looked back, embracing social media in her new role as an elected politician. With almost 3,000 followers on Twitter, she keeps everyone grounded on whether it’s raining or shining on agricultural politics. “To keep the integrity of the Holland Marsh, we need proper planning tools,” she says. One accomplishment is that the first-ever economic development strategy has been developed for the township. It’s part of sensitizing administrators to simple needs such as keeping key roads open during harvest, rather than closing them entirely for

construction. Increasingly known as a passionate advocate for agriculture, Eek has found herself participating in groups beyond her municipal duties. She’s now vice-chair of the Greater Toronto Area Agricultural Action Committee (GTAAAC). This makes sense as her deepening understanding of land, water and transportation issues go far beyond her patch of muck soil. Food and Farming: An Action Plan 2021, developed by GTAAAC has been endorsed by the cities of Toronto and Hamilton and all five regional municipalities in the Golden Horseshoe: York, Halton, Durham, Peel and Niagara. This plan lays out action items that can be integrated by economic development officers, often pivotal in that urban-rural balance. As she eventually moves into the chair, she will continue to leverage the trust that the public has in farmers. Newly minted at the political

table is John Lohr. Along with his wife Heather, they run a herb business on their Canning-area farm. He was just elected to the Nova Scotia House of Assembly in last October’s provincial election and as a Progressive Conservative for the riding of Kings North, sits as the opposition agriculture critic. “The public is interested in food, but they tend to look at agriculture through rose-coloured glasses,” says Lohr. “I hope to inject some vision and inspiration to the debate.” His Annapolis Valley riding has a long history of electing farmers. This is a potent tool for keeping agriculture’s voice at the political table. He’s the only farmer sitting in the assembly. Part of his election platform cited the need to strengthen agriculture in the province. He’s concerned about the twin trends of a declining and aging population that now numbers 922,000 in Nova Scotia. CONTINUED ON PAGE 3

PAGE 2 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

AT PRESS TIME… Marginal increases expected for retail food prices University of Guelph researchers have issued the latest Food Price Index (FPI), an annual report that examines Canadian retail food prices, including restaurant prices. The researchers predict general food expenditures to increase by between 0.3 and 2.6 per cent in 2014.

where the Canadian Food Strategy will be launched. The agenda promises international best practices in food strategy implementation from Scotland, Australia, the U.K. and other leading countries. Delegates will be engaged on how to collaborate and implement the strategy, and help define a future Conference Board of Canada indicators report that will measure progress. With the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association as a marketing partner, registration has been reduced to $695 for members to attend. To register, visit: www.conferenceboard.ca.

Popular show postponed a year

The report predicts that fruit and nuts will be up 0.6 to 1.2 percent and vegetables will be up 1.4 to 2.1 percent. Restaurant food prices are expected to increase by no more than two per cent. Greater competition is the main reason says Sylvain Charlebois, a professor and the report’s lead author. “The Canadian retail market saw very significant changes in 2013.” Researchers underestimated the impact on the Canadian market with the opening of Target stores and Walmart’s addition of 37 supercentres. Future pressures will come with Loblaw Companies’ acquisition of Shoppers Drug Mart.

The Canadian International Farm Show, traditionally held the first week of February, is taking a hiatus for 2014 as organizers restructure the event. “Since we purchased the event, we have been compiling data and information from both our supporting industry members and participating audience on how to improve the event, so as to be more of a factor in the Canadian farming industry,” says Wendell Howes, president. A two-year cycle would present a better opportunity to showcase more technology and educational possibilities. Howes says this move would reduce expenses and provide a fresher show.

N.S. strawberry growers replant

NEWSMAKERS strawberry crops. Strawberry production in Nova Scotia accounts for seven per cent of Canada’s overall strawberry output and is a major source of nursery plants for the rest of Canada. The AgriRecovery funds will help to stabilize the industry which is worth $19 million annually.

Ontario greenhouse growers welcome CHP program The Ontario government has announced a new combined heat and power (CHP) program targeting greenhouse operations, agrifood and district energy. Jan VanderHout, a greenhouse vegetable producer and chair of The Ontario Greenhouse Alliance (TOGA), a $1.4 billion annual economic engine in rural Ontario, welcomed the news from the Ministry of Energy’s Long Term Energy Plan. “This announcement is a positive step forward for Ontario's economy and environment by contributing to the recovery of carbon dioxide and heat, both coproducts from the generation of electricity from natural gas, and directing them into beneficial uses in greenhouse operations,” said VanderHout. “Greenhouses recover the carbon dioxide released when natural gas is burned and provide it to the plants in order to promote their growth. Greenhouse CHP is among the most efficient and cleanest applications of natural gas combustion in the world.”

Condolences to the family of Dean Tiessen, president of New Energy Farms, Leamington, Ontario who was killed in a car-jacking gone awry on a business trip near Sao Paulo, Brazil. The 46-yearold was an innovator in the field of bio-mass, growing miscanthus and other crops that could generate heat for the agricultural industry. Potato Growers of Alberta recently elected process grower John Bareman, Grassy Lake as chairman. He is the association’s voting representative on the Canadian Potato Council. Other new directors include Albert Ypma, Lacombe; Jake Schutter, Bow Island. New directors to the seed committee include Peter Kamper, Lethbridge and Ben Meyer, Rolling Hills. Charles Stevens of Newcastle is the new chair of the Ontario Apple Growers (OAG), replacing Brian Gilroy, Meaford, in the chair since 2008. Cathy McKay of Port Perry is the new vice-chair. Other directors include: Keith Wright, Peter Geerts, Brett Schuyler, Bob Hepburn, Shane Ardiel, Art Moyer and Richard Feenstra. Congratulations to Ernie Medel, Essex County Associated Growers’ Award Winner. He was recently honoured for his lifetime achievements as an apple grower near Olinda, Ontario. Right: Ernie Medel and representative from Taras Natyshak’s office, MPP for Essex. Photo by Herb Sherwood. Congratulations to Farm & Food Care Ontario. The organization was honoured at the Best of CAMA (Canadian Agri-Marketing Association) awards in Quebec City with Best of Show in Public Relations Campaigns for their inaugural “Breakfast on the Farm” event. Lorie Jocius won the 2013 CAMA “Agri-Marketer of the Year” award, a timely honour for the co-founder of Canada’s Outdoor Farm Show in its 20th anniversary year. The award recognizes innovative leadership and exceptional performance in facing challenges presented by marketing in today’s constantly changing agricultural world. MORE NEWSMAKERS ON PAGE 9

The Canada-Nova Scotia Strawberry Assistance Initiative will provide $2.3 million to remove plants struck by a virus complex and to replace with healthy plants. Producers will be eligible for a payment depending on the production system in use on their farm. AgriRecovery payments will be made once producers begin replanting their

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JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 3 THE GROWER

LEADERSHIP

How to break bread with politicians? Become one

Mark Wales, president of the Ontario Federation of Agriculture shares a speaking platform with Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1 At the same time, there is land suitable for agriculture that’s not farmed. Harking back to his roots in Holland, he sees an opportunity for immigrants to come, supported by an apprenticeship

program. At a time when many are cynical about the political process, Lohr holds hope. A few months ago, he went to Africa with the Maritime program, Farmers Helping Farmers. Working with Kenyan women on the basics of agriculture – seeds, compost

Community life has always been central for Heather and John Lohr who operate Farmer John’s Herbs at Canning, Nova Scotia. For John, it was a natural bridge to run for political office in the recent provincial election. As a Progressive Conservative, he sits on the opposition benches as agriculture critic. piles, rainwater storage tanks – he absorbed their optimism for the future. He came back motivated

to make a difference in the democratic process. Thanks to these growers,

horticulture’s voice is at the table.

UNITED KINGDOM

OREGON

Babyleaf kale popularized

Is a blueberry tree viable?

Thanks to its superfood status, kale is now making its mark in the U.K. with its miniature Jagello Nero sister. Babyleaf kale has two key selling points: sweet taste and a two-minute blanching time. CN Seeds is now offering Jagallo Nero, a babyleaf kale with unusual serrated leaves that has proved successful in the U.S. market. Babyleaf kale will be on display in CN Seeds’ booth at the upcoming Fruit Logistica 2014 trade exhibition which is hosted in Berlin, Germany from February 5 – 8. CN Seeds is represented by Norseco in Canada. Source: FreshPlaza.com

Researchers are testing a grafted blueberry ‘tree’ that grows on a single stem. Oregon State University horticulture professor Wei Qiang Yang anticipates that the first commercially available rootstock will significantly change how blueberries are produced and harvested. Blueberry bushes have multiple stems, making it difficult to harvest all the bounty. Currently, catch plates can’t fully encircle each stem of the bush. A blueberry bush in tree form would eliminate losses of up to 25 per cent. Yang is now analyzing first-year results on fruit quality factors such as firmness, size and total acidity. If successful with harvest parameters, commercial release could be just five years away.

INTERNATIONAL MICHIGAN

AUSTRALIA

Beets made easy Baby beetroot – peeled, cooked fresh in its own juices and vacuum- packed – is now marketed in the fresh food section at more than 1400 supermarkets across Australia. One Harvest, a family-owned and operated business headquartered in Queensland, has introduced the product in packs of 250 grams. With no sugar, salt or additives, the purple root vegetable is expected to attract new fans. The convenient format removes the barrier of messy preparation. One Harvest, with factories in Brisbane, Perth and Bairnsdale, is known for its variety of salad bags, kits and bowls, and value-added vegetables.

Research levy proposed Growers may be voting in early 2014 on a new Michigan Tree Fruit Commission. Separate from commodity-based boards that support production and promotion research, this new body would levy fees specifically to fund dwindling operating budgets of research stations and extension services. Industry comments are currently under review by the director of Michigan’s department of agriculture and rural development. If the plan proceeds, dollars would be collected on yields of fresh and processed cherries, apples, plums and peaches. The intent would be to earn matching funds from the Michigan legislature. Growers would be assessed on a sliding scale up to recommended maximum rates:

Apples: up to $0.04/CWT – $0.0004 per pound Cherries: up to $2.50/TON – $0.00125 per pound Peaches: up to $2.00/TON – $0.001 per pound Plums: up to $4.5/TON – $0.00225 per pound A board comprised of growers representing all fruitgrowing regions of Michigan would allocate funds based on prioritizing state, regional and local needs. One of the motivators is to keep competitive with Washington state. Source: Freshplaza.com

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FOOD INDUSTRY TRENDS

What the tea leaves say about fruits and vegetables in 2014 KAREN DAVIDSON It could take more than a cup of tea to distill the food industry trends for 2014. Food waste awareness is leading to cookbooks such as Tara Duggan’s “Root to Stalk Cooking.” It’s the equivalent of nose-to-tail for vegetarians and flexitarians. Use those edible scraps – celery leaves and beet greens – for a soup or stew. At Canadian House & Home Magazine, food editor Eric Vellend is predicting in-house vegetable butchers willing to slice and dice, for a price. Don’t let the upscale grocers hog the idea, if your on-farm retail outlet has the food safety certification and proximity to urban markets. For a broader basket of advice, Canadian Food Insights offers a compelling read. It’s a quarterly published by the Canadian Institute of Food Scientists and Technology. Editor Nicholas Heffernan has written about 10 trends facing the agri-food industry, ranging from conscious consumers to government/ industry compliance partnerships. Here are two examples of Canadian companies already surfing his 2014 trends. Refining products If you can’t sell the cranberries, scramble for deep freezers so you can sell them another day. That was the harsh reality as engineer David Ernst and his high-school teacher wife Evelyn cut their farming teeth with 12 acres of cranberries. That was just over a decade ago. Today, their Terra Beata business has been made 2013 Taste of Nova Scotia Producer of the Year. Headquartered in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia, Terra Beata exports frozen berries to major industrial customers in Europe while their branded juices, sauces, and dried fruit are sold through Sobeys and Loblaw grocery chains and

David and Evelyn Ernst are proud owners of Terra Beata, based in Lunenburg, Nova Scotia. Standing in their bog in November, 2013, they show some of their retail products, pure juice and preserves. Photo by Doug Townsend. independent stores in Atlantic Canada and Ontario. Clearly, their fresh perspective on frozen product has worked. They now market more than five million pounds of Canadian cranberries annually. They can compete with the Wisconsin cranberry crop because they are close to the Halifax port to ship overseas. Evelyn Ernst says it also pays to listen to customers. “In the early days, we sold cranberry sauce at farmers’ markets and fairs,” she says. “But then people starting asking for cranberry juice with no sugar and after that, dried cranberries with less sugar.” By 2005, Terra Beata was producing pure cranberry juice and delivering directly to four Loblaw Superstores. Lucky for them, they convinced the category manager to try placements in several parts of the stores. Traffic number comparisons soon showed that the regular juice aisle was superior in sales. “We think a lot of consumers

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don’t walk the natural food aisle because they don’t consider themselves to be part of the granola set,” says Evelyn. After a successful launch with

Loblaw Superstores, they also got into Sobeys which has a strong regional focus in Atlantic Canada. Their business grew quickly to 12 products.

Evelyn credits three reasons for the success of their pure juices. First, they packaged the pure juice in 473 ml bottles. It’s a pure juice that needs to be diluted with three bottles of water. Selling a one-litre bottle would take too much room in the consumer’s refrigerator. Next, the label clearly instructs consumers to dilute the drink with water or sparkling water. And lastly, category managers agreed to stock the product in the juice aisle. “Pure cranberry juice has taken off,” says Evelyn. Christmas orders wiped out their label inventory so they hustled to replenish stock. And then January’s healthy-eating resolutions propel sales into the New Year. “We’re putting a big push into branded sales this year.” The Producer of the Year award recognizes Terra Beata’s commitment to food safety (they achieved BRC certification in 2013), their willingness to support beginning producers, and their success in both domestic and the international markets. CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 5 THE GROWER

FOOD INDUSTRY TRENDS

What the tea leaves say about fruits and vegetables in 2014 Conscious consumers While today’s consumers are more health-conscious, they’re also driven by convenience. Brussels sprouts are climbing the vegetable ranks as more versatile than they have been given credit for. “I think Brussels sprouts have been given a bad reputation over the years because they can quickly turn bitter and soggy if overcooked,” says Ashlee Mclean, director of marketing at Ippolito Fruit and Produce Limited. “Sprouts are versatile vegetables but it’s important not to overprocess them.” The company says that sales growth of 30 per cent annually has been recorded over the last four years. In part, that’s driven by chefs experimenting on cooking shows and in restaurants.

“

Sprouts are versatile vegetables but it’s impor tant not to overprocess them.”

~ Ashlee Mclean The bite-sized vegetable can be shredded into a salad, halved and roasted with balsamic vinegar or pureed into a soup. Another twist is to add to stir fries or to an egg omelette. The taste and texture are transformed by the cooking method. The LCBO’s holiday 2013 issue of Food and Drink gave a serious nod to the green vegetable with a recipe for warm, shaved Brussels sprouts salad with Roquefort cheese and hazelnuts. Move over kale. Brussels sprouts have arrived.

Ippolito Fruit and Produce Limited, Burlington, Ontario presents Brussels sprouts in various package sizes

Global snacks arrive in Canada Demographics are changing rapidly across Canada, with about 31 per cent of consumers now representing rich and diverse cultural cuisines. Terry Wong, vice-president for authentic ethnic at Tree of Life Canada, was recently interviewed by Canadian Grocer magazine. Wong explains that the ethnic food category is about much more than spices and condiments, ingredients that

have a long shelf life and slow turn-over. The snack category is easy to overlook but shouldn’t be with its fast turn-over. Canada’s snack-food imports, including chips, popcorn, nuts, candy and cookies, have grown by US$316 million since 2006. With these demographics and import statistics as backdrop, the next step is to imagine how fruits and

vegetables might be transformed. Beet chips with cumin spicing? Cookies with dried fruits? Tree of Life Canada, Mississauga, Ontario has branding, marketing and distribution expertise in several categories including specialty grocery, Asian and Indian, and natural and organic.

OFVGA welcomes guest speaker

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PAGE 6 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

Book the early bird rate for Ontario Fruit & Vegetable Convention The early bird gets the worm and a better rate! The 2014 edition of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention (OFVC) will be hosted at the Scotiabank Convention Centre in Niagara Falls on February 19 and 20. Thanks to sponsorship, free parking is available. The early bird rates are in effect until February 11. For a complete price list, go to the website at www.ofvc.ca and click on the “Attend” button. If you register by February 11, the two-day package for educational seminars and trade show costs $95 + HST. After that, the rate rises to $123.90+ HST. A new price point has been added for the trade show on Thursday: $35.40 + HST. Education OFVC sessions feature some of the leading horticultural experts from across the continent, appealing to a broad array of growers. Sessions include: Apiculture, Apples, Berries, Biopesticides, Direct Farm Marketing, Farmers' Markets, Funding Programs, Grapes, Irrigation, Maintaining Good Relations with Neighbours, Nematode Management, Organic, Specialty Fruit, Tender Fruit, Vegetables, Wash/Waste Management and Winery.

Presentation (between 11:00 am & 1:00 pm in trade show area) Contact Info: Submissions and questions can be sent to Adrian Huisman at huismanadrian@gmail.com or fax 905.945.5386 Chair of Judging Committee, OFVC Trade Innovations Awards New competition

Photo by Denis Cahill Workshops include: Apple Cider, Drip Irrigation, Great OntarioHopped Craft Brew Competition. OFVC Innovation Awards OFVC is seeking applications from exhibitor companies or individuals offering new products and services to horticulture during the upcoming convention. Winners will be announced on February 19, 2014, opening day of the show for Innovative Product and Innovative Service. Winners will receive a personalized plaque and the use of a special logo for marketing

purposes. The guidelines for applicants are as follows: • the Product/Service must be “NEW” (since last year's OFVC February 23, 2013) • the Product/Service does not need to be your company’s invention. Re-sellers/dealers may submit as well as inventors/ developers. • the Product/Service must be available for acquisition by customers at the time of the current OFVC (for example – don't submit for a pesticide that isn't yet registered). • the submitting company must be

a registered exhibitor at the 2014 OFVC and the Product/Service must be displayed in their trade show booth in some form. A panel of four judges has been selected based on their knowledge and experience of the Ontario horticulture sector and innovation within it. Important Dates: January 10 – Submission deadline for your product to be included in the show guide. January 31 – Submission deadline for judging. February 19 – Awards

A hard cider competition will make its debut, supported by the Ontario Craft Cider Association. This fledgling group has 14 members who make an adult beverage from fermented apple juice. The alcohol rate ranges from about four to seven per cent according to the website, www.ontariocraftcider.com. Hard cideries have been springing up in the Niagara area, as far north as Collingwood and as far east as Prince Edward County. “It’s a sleeper commodity that’s earning more attention,” says Leslie Huffman, one of the organizers for the sweet cider competition. To encourage more dialogue between growers, the speaking program introduces Ben Watson, a New Hampshire author and amateur cider maker.

JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 7 THE GROWER

COMPETITORS

Sunny California faces water and labour shortages KAREN DAVIDSON All that glitters is not gold. California, the mecca of U.S. fruit and vegetable production, is a land of extremes reports Cathy Bartolic, executive director, Ontario Farm Fresh Marketing Association (OFFMA). “Huge operations co-exist with small, organic farms, each finding their own niche,” says Bartolic. Those contrasts presented plenty of fodder for the 55 direct marketers who represented 24 farms from Ontario, Quebec and Alberta. Every other year, the group now flies to a destination. They started in Los Angeles November 11 and ended in San Francisco November 15. California was chosen because of its innovation in promoting local food and the related work of world-renowned chefs. Steve Martin was keen to visit California for the first time. As a seasoned marketer and retail sales manager for Martin’s Family Fruit Farm, in Waterloo, Ontario he was expecting the latest in innovation. Before boarding the flight, he knew that the go-big-orgo-home approach wouldn’t be for everyone. What he observed was many variations of success, depending on how the owners deployed their assets. “You can report a large number in gross sales, but still be losing money,” he says. “You still need to pay yourself.” Good growers don’t necessarily translate into good marketers. In successful cases, the growers have hired the expertise they need and given autonomy to run that portion of the business. “Direct marketing is not something that comes naturally to everyone,” says Martin. “It takes time and money to be successful, and it’s a process that takes more than a year or two to build.” Martin appreciated the authenticity of one organic grower of broccoli, celery and strawberries. With under 1,000 acres in production – large by Ontario’s terms – the grower said he didn’t feel organic was the only way to grow produce, just a route that works for his business. The grower recognized that this method can’t feed the world. In visiting a corporate organic farm, Martin said the interpretive centre glossed over the realities of growing large volumes of produce. Small garden plots were geared to children, but didn’t address the tough questions of controlling pests. “The fact is that 200 growers are under contract to meet the volumes required,” said Martin. California is currently under two major stresses: lack of water and labour. In some areas, it had not rained since Easter Sunday. Some growers were nervous about dependence on politicians for water rights. In this context,

Martin was surprised that gutter irrigation was still the norm, and that major investments have not been made in drip irrigation that would be more efficient with water use. California growers are also experiencing a dearth of labour due to tightened immigration laws. “They have never had this issue before of a dwindling labour supply,” says Martin. Employers are also facing a rise in minimum wage. The California Farm Bureau Federation confirms that the current wage of $8.00 per hour is moving to $9.00 per hour

effective July 1, 2014. Another increase to $10 per hour is slated for January 1, 2016. Martin expected to see more mechanization in California, but admits that innovation in harvesting can only go so far without sacrificing quality. “I think the era of cheap produce from California is over.” Steve Martin will be speaking at the OFFMA Summit on February 19, opening day of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention, Scotiabank Convention Centre, Niagara Falls, Ontario.

California produce by the numbers California agriculture recorded a nearly three per cent increase in the sales value of its products in 2012, tallying a record $44.7 billion. The state produces nearly half of U.S.-grown fruits, nuts and vegetables. Some of the top 10 are: • Grapes — $4.449 billion • Almonds — $4.347 billion • Strawberries — $1.939 billion • Lettuce — $1.448 billion • Walnuts — $1.349 billion • Tomatoes — $1.170 billion Source: California Department of Food and Agriculture

PAGE 8 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

GRAPE AND WINE STRATEGY

Ontario broadens points-of-sale for VQA wines KAREN DAVIDSON Corks popped early this year for a pre-Christmas announcement by Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne, renewing a $75 million, five-year Grape and Wine Industry Strategy. Most importantly, the program will allow Ontario VQA wines to be sold at farmers’ markets and LCBO’s new “Our Wine Country” destination boutiques will be expanded. Three boutiques were opened last fall in Niagara Falls, St. Catharines and Windsor featuring a broad array of premium and hard-to-find Ontario VQA wines. It’s not known yet what cities would be ripe for expansion. “We believe consumer access will improve knowledge,” said Debbie Zimmerman, CEO, Grape Growers of Ontario. “Most wine regions around the world own their domestic market before they expand. We are happy to have more consumer access to wine at farmers’ markets because this treats consumers as customers.” Farmers’ Markets Ontario (FMO) is eager to work on logistics for selling VQA wines at 175 markets. “It’s critical that we play a major role in consultations and implementation,” says Bob Chorney, executive director, FMO. “We questioned why no fruit wines before the announcement was made and we’ve again made the case for fruit wines to be included. You can be assured that we will press hard on this in early 2014.” A Grape and Wine Secretariat is to be led by the premier and Jim Bradley, Minister of

Environment and MPP for St. Catharines. It’s to be a onewindow point of discussion between the province and industry, reducing red tape and helping to make growers and wineries more competitive. The announcement bolsters the profile of these two politicians just prior to an expected by-election in the grape-growing region of Niagara Falls. For grape growers, an Ontario Wine Fund is welcome news to support key winery and vineyard investments such as specialized equipment and machinery. They are also encouraged by funds to enhance marketing locally and globally. “Ontario’s grape growers appreciate the continued support from our Premier and her government,” said Bill George, chair of the Grape Growers of Ontario. “The renewal of this program speaks volumes about the economic value each grape grower and winery brings to the province of Ontario. More than 14,000 Ontario jobs are tied to the continued success of 100 per cent Ontario grown wines and the 15,000 acres of wine grape vineyards that are now in place across the province.” Launched in 2009, the strategy has supported significant growth in the sector, including doubling

the number of VQA wineries, creating 2,000 direct jobs, record grape production, and the development of prime tourist destinations, from the Niagara Peninsula to Prince Edward County and Lake Erie North Shore. That said, the Ontario industry is chafing for more radical change to boost sales of VQA wines. In 2012, the Liquor Control Board of Ontario returned $1.6 billion to the provincial treasury or about $121 for every citizen. British Columbia is doing far better with its mixture of government and privately-run shops that made $900 million or $197 per capita.

VEGETABLE EQUIPMENT FOR SALE -

1 used 18’ potato truck, $6,500. Thomas WR944 4-row windrower, field ready, $24,500. Thomas C91 2-row harvester, field ready, TTT warranty. SOLD. Thomas B2000 Air Vac harvester. Mint condition, $30,000. 2-row Spudnick potato harvester, $30,000. 4-row Spudnick potato windrower. New primary and secondary webs, used one season, $24,000. - 4-row mechanical transplanter with water tank, SOLD. - Lockwood 5000 4-row, windrower, field ready, $20,000. - Lockwood 2-row potato harvester, $12,000. - Grimme GB1700 potato harvester, $16,000. - Grimme DL1500 2-row windrower, $7,500. - Grimme GL1700 potato harvester, $30,000. - Grimme RL3600 4-row windrower. Full width primary, mint cond., $26,000 - NEW 16 ton fertilizer tender box, $19,500. - NEW 1000 gallon, 66’ Farm King sprayer, $30,000. - 12 row Stanhay seeder with microgranular boxes. Nearly new, $39,000 - 1000 gallon FarmKing sprayer, 66ft booms. 2012 model, $ 26,000

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE FOR OUR FULL LISTING OF USED EQUIPMENT!

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JANUARY 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PAGE 9 THE GROWER

NEWSMAKERS The Prince Edward Island Potato Board welcomes a new executive under the continued chairmanship of Gary Linkletter. Alex Docherty is the new vice-chair representing the seed sector. Two new directors are David Francis representing seed growers and Rodney Dingwall representing processing growers. Ian Drake joins the board as Young Farmers Representative in ex-officio capacity. The Asparagus Farmers of Ontario announce the retirement of Paul Banks from the University of Guelph. Heâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spent 20 years as Dave Wolynâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s technician, working on the asparagus breeding program. However, he will be providing consultant services to Fox Seeds, providing technical advice to distributors and growers, as well as coordinating strip trials in Ontario, Michigan, Quebec and Washington. Paulâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s replacement at the University of Guelph will be Richard Grzesik, who will be responsible for continuing the technical aspects of the breeding program. Additionally, Rob Grohs, located in the Simcoe Research Station, will now manage the agronomy aspects of the research program, including asparagus field trials, irrigation trials and managing the harvest and students at the station. Ontarioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Agricultural Adaptation Council has elected its 2014 board. Chair is Kristin Ego MacPhail and Judy Dirksen is vice-chair. Fred Wagner is treasurer and Don McCabe is secretary. Directors include: Arno Schober, Brenda Lammens, Brian Wiley, Cor Kapteyn, Don Lobb, Doug Alexander, Gord Surgeoner, John Kikkert, Kelly Duffy, Len Troup, Mark Huston and Sid Atkinson. Provincial liaison is Annette Anderson and federal liaison is Richard Seguin. In next monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Olympics, be sure to root for Heather Moyse and Kaillie Humphries in womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s bobsled. They won their first World Cup race in more than two years on November 30, setting a new record of 55.89 seconds. A Summerside, PEI resident, Moyse has become well-known in the produce industry as spokesperson for PEI potatoes.

BITS AND BITES

Ontario Pesticide Survey now online All Ontario field crop, vegetable, fruit and specialty crop farmers are asked to fill out a confidential, anonymous on-line survey of pesticide use for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Ministry of Rural Affairs. This year, the survey is being conducted by Farm & Food Care Ontario and is available on line at www.ontariopesticidesurvey.ca. Surveys have been conducted every five years since 1973 and are used to track trends in pesticide use. Government, commodity boards and researchers use the information to help improve minor use pesticide registration lists, work toward safer use of pesticides and to understand trends in use and the types of pesticides used. "Ontario growers have shown

leadership over the past 40 years by sharing their pesticide use records,â&#x20AC;? says Craig Hunter, expert advisor with the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association. â&#x20AC;&#x153;These records have been put to great use to help justify such things as emergency uses, adding products to the GROU list for importation, and for pesticide pricing impacts. I urge growers to once again share their data, in total confidentiality, to continue this valuable resource." The survey will track all field and horticulture crops and the pesticides used, acres applied and also acres where no pesticides are used. All farmers and custom spray applicators are encouraged to help fill out the survey of products they used during the 2013 growing season.

With increasing interest in seed treatments used in agriculture, this topic will also be added to the 2013 pesticide use survey, including the number of acres planted with the treated seed and the active ingredients in the seed treatments. The survey is anonymous. Only a respondentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s county information will be collected to help determine pesticide usage in different parts of the province.â&#x20AC;¨ New this year, data collection has moved to an online program with drop down menus for ease of use and accuracy of data. The survey is available online at www.ontariopesticidesurvey.ca. Farm & Food Care will also accept mail-in, fax or email returns of the survey. Data collection will continue until February 15, 2014.

Training for farm assistants The 2014 Farm Assistant Instructor Courses are posted at the following link: www.opep.ca/index.cfm/farm-assistants/ courseexam-schedule-dates/ Please share this link with anyone looking to train their assistants on-farm this coming year and need to complete this course. Farm assistants who use class 2 or 3 pesticides in Ontario need to be trained and renew this training every five years. Assistants can be trained on-farm by a Certified

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Farmer who has completed the Farm Assistant Instructor Course or they can attend a Grower Pesticide Safety Course. They do not have to complete the certification exam. GPSC dates are located at www.opep.ca/index.cfm/farmers1/ courseexam-schedule-dates/ If Farm Assistant Instructor Course dates are needed in other areas of Ontario, please contact 800-652-8573.

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PAGE 10 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

PERSPECTIVE Thumbs up for local food prospects in 2014

OWEN ROBERTS UNIVERSITY OF GUELPH Fruit and vegetable producers who have a local food component built into their management strategy are on the right track heading into the New Year, according to the latest consumer food price outlook from the University of Guelph. The outlook, produced annually by a team led by Prof. Sylvain Charlebois, shows consumer interest in local food could be a bright spot for 2014. He says local food, along with

better nutrition, is likely to increase the demand for premium products from the farm, such as functional foods, omega-3 eggs and gluten-free items. And increased demand could mean higher prices for farmers. Not that next year is forecast to be gloomy for either farmers or consumers. Prices at grocery stores are projected to rise a maximum of two per cent on conventional items such as vegetables. In some cases, they’ll even fall – Charlebois and his team say dairy and egg prices could drop up to 1.5 per cent. Increased competition is said to be moderating the forecasted rise in prices. It would have been greater if the likes of Target, Costco, Walmart and the Loblaw Companies group weren’t slugging it out for consumer dollars. But this competition -- called “intense” by Charlebois -- shows no signs of abating. In highly competitive markets, processors, manufacturers and retailers are watching their own hind ends, not those of farmers.

So farmers have to do it themselves. And that’s where local food – and, in fact, any kind of differentiation -- comes in. People don’t seem to mind paying more for food they believe carries extra benefits. Local food fits that bill, with its aura of support for local economies, local

STAFF Publisher: Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association Editor: Karen Davidson, 416-557-6413, kdavidson@ecomente.ca Production: Carlie Robertson, ext. 221, production@thegrower.org Advertising: Herb Sherwood, 519-380-0118, hsherwood@cogeco.ca

OFFICE 355 Elmira Road North, Unit 105 Guelph, Ontario N1K 1S5 CANADA Tel. 519-763-8728 • Fax 519-763-6604

The Grower reserves the right to refuse any advertising. Any errors that are the direct result of The Grower will be compensated at our discretion with a correction notice in the next issue. No compensation will be given after the first running of the ad. Client signature is required before insertion. The Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association is the sole owner of The Grower. All editorials and opinions expressed in The Grower are those of the newspaper’s editorial staff and/or contributor, and do not necessarily reflect the view of the association. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced either whole or in part without the prior written consent of the publisher. P.M. 40012319

The Grower is printed 12 times a year and sent to all members of the Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Association who have paid $30.00 (plus G.S.T.) per year for the paper through their commodity group or container fees. Others may subscribe as follows by writing to the office:

$30.00 (+ G.S.T.) /year in Canada $40.00/year International Subscribers must submit a claim for missing issues within four months. If the issue is claimed within four months, but not available, The Grower will extend the subscription by one month. No refunds on subscriptions.

people and local values. Local food does not have to be seen as only the domain of small farmers and part-time producers. I know large grain farmers who shake their heads when their operations are not mentioned in local food conversations. Why, they wonder, is their wheat not

ONTARIO FRUIT AND VEGETABLE GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION BOARD OF DIRECTORS 2013 MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE Chair Vice-Chair Fruit Director Veg Director Director

Ray Duc, Niagara-on-the-Lake Jason Verkaik, Bradford Norm Charbonneau, Port Elgin Jan Vander Hout, Waterdown Brian Gilroy, Meaford

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Apples Fresh Vegetable - Other Tender Fruit ON Asparagus Grws’. Mkg. Brd. GGO/Fresh Grape Growers Fresh Vegetable - Muck ON. Potato Board Small Fruit/Berries ON. Ginseng Growers’ Greenhouse Greenhouse

Brian Gilroy, Meaford Mary Shabatura, Windham Centre John Thwaites, Niagara-on-the-Lake Jason Ryder, Delhi Ray Duc, Niagara-on-the-Lake Jason Verkaik, Bradford Mac James, Leamington Norm Charbonneau, Port Elgin Ken Van Torre, Burford Jan Vander Hout, Waterdown Don Taylor, Durham

considered local food, although the loaf of bread it’s turned into is? It may be a matter of marketing. At the Value Chain Management Centre in Oakville, Martin Gooch and his team have been trying to help turn around the image-poor Ontario potato industry. Part of the team includes grocers, who would be quite happy charging more for potatoes if consumers saw value in paying more – for example, if potatoes were considered part of the local food experience. But mostly, consumers and grocers see potatoes as a cheap shopping cart item, Gooch says in the last of a three-part study on the industry, released in December. His advice to potato farmers is to market what consumers want, not what you want to sell. And really, that pertains to potatoes or any other commodity. Ontario’s wine sector learned that decades ago. Gooch says the industry can take advantage of the many parts and participants in its value chain to turn a basic commodity such as potatoes into something more valuable. Consumers want local food. That’s what Ontario farmers produce. So making sure you have some element of “local” built into your farm management strategy should help with profitability.

OFVGA SECTION CHAIRS Crop Protection Research Property Labour Safety Nets CHC

Charles Stevens, Newcastle Harold Schooley, Simcoe Brian Gilroy, Meaford Ken Forth, Lynden Mark Wales, Alymer Murray Porteous, Simcoe

JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 11 THE GROWER

ONTARIO FRUIT AND VEGETABLE GROWERS’ ASSOCIATION

Board briefs Following are highlights from the OFVGA board meeting held December 13, 2013. The purpose of this brief is to keep you up-todate on the issues that the OFVGA is working on, as well as projects and initiatives the organization is involved in. Financial review and budget Representatives from Tonin & Co. LLP reviewed their audit report with the Board for the OFVGA fiscal year ended October 31, 2013. Final financial statements will be presented to the OFVGA membership at the annual general meeting in January in Niagara Falls. The Board approved the budget for 2014, which this year included $250,000 in funding for the OFVGA Research and Promotion Fund for its member associations. The distribution of these funds in 2014 will be based on the percentage of container and association membership fees collected during 2012. More information will be circulated directly to the member groups.

plant propagators to continually propagate clean plants for growers to establish production fields. Disease problems have been affecting Ontario plant propagation which could potentially jeopardize plant production in Ontario. The Ontario Berry Growers’ Association has written to the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food seeking assistance in addressing these disease and plant breeding challenges. Bill C-18 The federal government introduced Bill C-18, Agricultural Growth Act, in mid-December. The bill includes a number of legislative changes that will have

an impact on a large number of areas in the agricultural sector from plant protection and breeding to farm financials and feed. It includes changes to the Agricultural Marketing Products Act and the Plant Breeders Rights Act. Waste Reduction Act OFVGA had been part of the Ontario Agriculture Waste Management Partnership which worked on an industry response to the Ministry of the Environment’s proposed Waste Reduction Act. The Act is currently still in second reading. The group also included Ontario Federation of Agriculture, Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable

Three-year-old miscanthus Growers, Flowers Canada (Ontario), Farm & Food Care, Canadian Animal Health Initiative, Dairy Farmers of Ontario, Ontario Agri-Business Association, Clean Farms and the Canadian Fertilizer Institute. Annual General Meeting

The 155th annual general meeting of the OFVGA will be held January 13 and 14, 2014 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Niagara Falls, Ontario. Registration and hotel information, as well as the event agenda, are available at www.ofvga.org/ events.php.

Crop protection Section chair Charles Stevens and the Crop Protection Advisory Committee (CPAC) met with the Pest Management Regulatory Agency (PMRA) to discuss current crop protection issues. This included how to move forward with full harmonization of crop protection products between Canada and the United States, as well as addressing challenges like Post-harvest and Re-entry intervals (PHI and REI). OFVGA also supported a CPAC presentation to PMRA concerning the re-evaluation of Mancozeb, which is currently underway. Research OFVGA research section chair Harold Schooley, who is also Chair of Ontario Agri-Food Technologies (OAFT), attended the Bioeconomy Research Highlights day at the end of November. Presentations were given on trends in the bioeconomy and on the industrial demand for agricultural feedstocks for biocomposites, biomaterials, biochemicals and bioenergy from alternative resources, bioproducts discovery and advanced polymer processing. The industry is still in its infancy but Ontario is home to more than 1200 chemical manufacturers and eight of the top 10 global chemical companies, accounting for $21.5 billion in sales and employing more than 41,000 people.

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Berry propagation In Ontario, berry plants have a short usable lifespan, continually requiring plantings to be renewed. This means the industry needs

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PAGE 12 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

Year in review KELLY DAYNARD It has now been two years since the amalgamation of AGCare (Agricultural Groups Concerned about Resources and the Environment) and the Ontario Farm Animal Council to become Farm & Food Care Ontario. Farm & Food Care is the first coalition of its type in Canada, bringing together tens of thousands of livestock, crop and horticulture farmers and related businesses with a mandate to provide credible information on food and farming in Ontario. Here are some highlights from the past year that are of interest to the province’s fruit and vegetable growers. In 2013, Farm & Food Care has significantly increased its activities related to environmental initiatives. Three contract employees now work on environmental projects on behalf of Farm & Food Care’s members. Here are some of their initiatives. Water Resource Adaptation and Management Initiative (WRAMI) The Water Resource Adaptation and Management Initiative (WRAMI) is providing

funding for demonstration and research projects that showcase innovative technologies and solutions to water conservation and water use efficiency problems within agriculture and demonstrate strategies for drought preparedness and activities related to adapting to climate change. A total of 17 projects were selected by an expert review panel from 38 eligible applications for WRAMI funding. This research and demonstration initiative has allocated approximately $900,000 to encourage demonstration and pilot projects that showcase water conservation or efficiency equipment, technologies or tools by farm groups and organizations. A WRAMI meeting to present the results of all projects will be held on March 6, 2014 at the Holiday Inn in Guelph. Funding for this initiative has been provided by the federal and Ontario governments through the Agricultural Flexibility Fund, as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan. Ontario Pesticide Survey All Ontario field crop, vegetable, fruit and specialty crop farmers are asked to fill out a confidential, anonymous on-line

survey of pesticide use for the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Ministry of Rural Affairs. New this year, data collection has moved to an online program with drop down menus for ease of use and accuracy of data. The survey is available online at www.ontariopesticidesurvey.ca Farm & Food Care will also accept mail-in, fax or email returns of the survey. Surveys have been conducted every five years since 1973 and are used to track trends in pesticide use. Government, commodity boards and researchers use the information to help improve minor use pesticide registration lists, work toward safer use of pesticides and to understand trends in use and the types of pesticides used.

• Regulatory changes that will bring greenhouse effluent under the Nutrient Management Act; • Obsolete pesticide collection programs; • Bee health; • Introduction of the Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network, (CoCoRaHS) a volunteer weather reporting system to Canada; • Updates on committee members’ work on the Source Water Legislation Farm & Food Care welcomes suggestions from its membership and the broader agricultural community on environmental initiatives that the council and

organization should become involved in. Suggestions can be sent to Bruce Kelly, Environmental Coordinator at bruce@farmfoodcare.org These are just a few of the initiatives undertaken by Farm & Food Care in 2013. As always, we welcome new ideas of initiatives we can and should undertake on behalf of Ontario’s farmers. Kelly Daynard is communications manager for Farm & Food Care.

COMING EVENTS 2013

Environmental Council

January 7, 8 Southwest Agricultural Conference, Ridgetown, ON

The Farm & Food Care Board of Directors has designated a Farm Environmental Council. This council is designed to play a pivotal role with the organization, providing a forum for proactive dialogue and direction with many stakeholders. The council’s membership consists of representatives from Farm & Food Care’s platinum, gold and silver level members, including the OFVGA. Members of the Environment Council met in April, September and December. Les Nichols, representing the Ontario Soil and Crop Improvement Association, was elected as chair of the council. Some of the issues discussed by the council have included:

January 13

Ontario Apple Growers Annual General Meeting, Elizabeth Room, Crowne Plaza, Niagara Falls, ON

Jan 13, 14

Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Growers’ Annual General Meeting, Crowne Plaza, Niagara Falls, ON

January 16

Quebec Apple Growers Annual General Meeting, Club de golf de la Prairie, La Prairie, QC

Jan 20 – 23 Empire State Producers’ Expo, ON Center, Syracuse, NY Jan 27, 28

Scotia Horticultural Congress 2014, Old Orchard Inn, NS

Jan 27 – 29 North American Raspberry and Blackberry Conference, Hershey, PA Jan 28, 29

Ontario Processing Vegetable Industry Conference, Hilton Hotel, London, ON

Jan 29, 30

Chatham-Kent Farm Show, Chatham-Kent Convention Centre, Chatham, ON

Jan 30- Feb 1 16th Annual Pacific Agriculture Show, Tradex Exhibition Centre, Abbotsford, BC Jan 30 – Feb 2 Guelph 2014 Organic Conference & Expo, University Centre, Guelph, ON Feb 5 – 8

Fruit Logistica, Berlin, Germany

Feb 11 - 13 La Semaine Horticole, Hotel Mortagne, Boucherville, QC Feb 18

Ontario Berry Growers’ Association Annual General Meeting, Niagara Falls, ON

Feb 19, 20

Ontario Fruit and Vegetable Convention, Scotiabank Convention Centre, Niagara Falls, ON

Feb 20

Great Ontario-Hopped Craft Brewing Competition, Scotiabank Convention Centre, Niagara Falls, ON

Feb 22 – 26 57th International Fruit Tree Association Annual Conference & Intensive Workshop, Kelowna, BC Febr 25, 26 Agricultural Management Institute Conference: “Take a new approach: creating agribusiness linkages,” Delta Hotel, Guelph, ON March 4-6

Canadian Horticultural Council Annual General Meeting, The Grand Hotel, Kelowna, BC

March 6

Ontario Potato Conference, Delta Hotel, Guelph, ON

Mar 18, 19 3rd Canadian Food Summit, “From Strategy to Action,” Metro Toronto Convention Centre, Toronto, ON

JANUARY 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PAGE 13 THE GROWER

RETAIL NAVIGATOR

Sobeys polishes food image with U.K. chef Jamie Oliver

PETER CHAPMAN Sobeys' roots are in Stellarton, Nova Scotia where the Sobey family started with one store. They grew into a regional chain across Atlantic Canada by 1980. The company moved to the national stage with the acquisition of Oshawa Group in the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;90s and subsequently added Thrifty Foods and Safeway to give them sales in every province. The family continues to have controlling interest in the holding company (Empire) more than 100 years after the business was started. Years ago Sobeys declared they were going to improve their food expertise and that would differentiate their stores from the one stop shop across the street. This strategy has been reinforced recently through the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s

partnership with Jamie Oliver. They are investing a lot in store and in the media to promote healthier eating and good food. The recent change in leadership from Bill McEwan to Marc Poulin will impact Sobeys' offering. The company had embarked on a consolidation program called Sobeys One. They were in the process of reviewing many programs and standards to find common ground. The goal was to determine which is the best solution to implement across the different regions. There is more influence from the Quebec region now, which is driven by their strong results and the change in leadership. Sobeys is the only national retailer to maintain a regional structure. The regions operate independently and working with each one can be very different. They do not communicate with each other and the top priority of Sobeys stores in Ontario can be different than the West or Atlantic. Here are my top 10 considerations when developing relationships with Sobeys: 1. Treat each region as a specific entity. Understand what their priorities are and develop strategies to meet their expectations.

2. Sobeys do want to talk about food. They are looking for strong opportunities to reinforce their food focus. The new Jamie Oliver program is an opportunity for suppliers who have some unique food offerings. 3. The control label program at Sobeys is there to deliver sales and profit. The focus on unique items is not as strong. They compete within the categories but they do not strive to lead the categories. 4. Sobeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s merchandisers have access to solid retail information. They lived through the pain of the SAP conversion a number of years ago so they now benefit from reliable point-of-sale data. Category managers will share some information about product performance and the system allows them to do category analysis. 5. You must be prepared to travel to the different regions if you want your product listed in them. Item numbers are identical across regions, however the decision to list products and procurement is regional for most items. 6. Sobeys is focused on getting Safeway stores integrated into Sobeyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s supply chain systems. Vendors servicing Sobeys and/or Safeway should be in tune with

Western Canada

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this transition. 7. IGA stores in Quebec are very good stores. If possible, visit these stores to explore the program. There is a possibility these programs will be implemented across different regions as they work through consolidation. 8. It is important to follow the evolution of Sobeys. They are committed to trying new formats and changing the offering. Just recently they opened a new Sobeys Extra store in Burlington, Ontario. Their allocation of shelf space and new programs could impact the listing base in other stores. 9. Remember, Sobeys are distributing food for Target. They will learn from Target and you might see some different strategies coming to Sobeys from

Target - most likely in supply chain where they would have the most contact. 10. Sobeys is one of the retailers with the best commitment to sourcing and merchandising locally produced products. Their regional approach makes this more realistic and their merchandisers do believe regional products are an important point of differentiation for them. Peter Chapman, a retail food consultant and professional speaker, is principal of GPS Business Solutions, based in Halifax, Nova Scotia. Peter works with producers and processors to help them navigate through the retail environment with the ultimate goal of getting more items into the shopping cart. pchapman@gpsbusiness.ca.

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PAGE 14 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

FOOD SAFETY

‘No real scientific evidence that plastic or corrugated containers are superior ’: University of Guelph food safety professor KAREN DAVIDSON If the produce container industry is serious, science should guide the food safety debate about Reusable Plastic Containers (RPC). According to Keith Warriner, a University of Guelph food safety professor, there’s still not enough science in North America determining the standards for sanitizing RPCs, now mandated by several retailers for use in transporting produce from growers. “As an academic, it’s my job to state what the results are,” says Warriner, who assessed the microbiological standards of RPCs used in different fresh produce packing stations in Canada. In a study commissioned by the Canadian Corrugated and Containerboard Association (CCCA) last summer, financial parameters limited Warriner’s examination to 10 RPCs from each of five growers in Ontario and Quebec. He also noted that few growers wanted to participate in the study for fear of the perception of criticizing their retail customers. To put this sample in context, an estimated 30 million RPCs are now circulated in Canada. Once at the farms in Hamilton, Leamington and Montreal, Warriner observed broken crates and those with multiple labels which had not been removed from previous farm visits. Ironically, some growers were

Corrugated containers and Reusable Plastic Containers (RPC) are found side by side in packing sheds. About 30 million RPCs are now circulated in Canada.

“

Among this sample, there is no food safety issue here.. There is no standard that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency would take issue with.” ~ Keith Warriner using paper liners in their RPCs to enhance cleanliness. In the laboratory, there were failing grades writes David Andrews, executive director, CCCA, in a recent opinion editorial. “Collectively, 64 per cent of all RPCs failed in terms of sanitary standards and 56 per cent of trays had a higher aerobic count than expected on a cleaned surface,” he writes, adding that

the full study is posted at www.cccabox.org. But in the end, Warriner did not confirm the presence of E.coli or Salmonella, common culprits of food-borne illness. What’s contentious is who determines the appropriate cleanliness standard for RPCs. They need not be up to surgical standards. “Among this sample, there is no food safety issue here,”

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Warriner concluded. “There is no standard that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency would take issue with.” That’s not to say Warriner doesn’t have concerns. Since RPCs must be sent to Chicago, Illinois for sanitizing, it’s possible that plant pathogens such as Erwinia, Pseudomonas, Xanthomonas or Ascomycetes could cross the border. It’s these invisible plant pathogens that worry many growers, particularly those who export to the United States. For the 224 producers who belong to the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers (OGVG), this is a phytosanitary issue with serious trade implications. “We cannot comment on the validity of the microbiological tests reported in Dr. Warriner’s study,” says Don Taylor, OGVG chair. “However his observations on the visual inspections are similar to what we are hearing from a number of farmers, with respect to the presence of plant material, stickers and other foreign material in some of the returning containers. It appears that at least some of the containers are escaping adequate cleaning and decontamination.” “Given the relatively low level of sampling carried out, we feel that this study should be treated as preliminary. It should lead to a more comprehensive study that should be expanded to include the potential for the spread of plant pathogens that are of potential economic importance to farmers. It could also result in the development of realistic standards that could be used to monitor performance of the RPC supplier

going forward. We are certainly not opposed to RPCs, but we do feel that it is important to ensure that the potential risks have been studied scientifically to ensure that the right management practices are put in place.” Currently, an RPC Working Group, including industry and government representatives, is expected to report progress to the CPMA’s issues management industry committee. “The Working Group will next focus on developing best practices for RPCs which will, of course, include guidance to ensure the continued focus on delivering safe and nutritious produce to Canadians regardless of the commodity or packaging type used,” says Jane Proctor, vice president policy and issue management, Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA). As that process takes its course, the corrugated industry is vigorously defending its business. “While we obviously have a natural opposition to the commercial growth of the RPC industry in Canada, we also have a firm belief that using this particular system to ship food may be problematic for retailers,” writes Andrews. “Together with fruit and vegetable growers across the country, we want to ensure that all produce reaches its final destination safely.” Any visit to the packing sheds of growers reveals that corrugated boxes and RPCs are side by side. Growers are looking to their industry associations to use science-based evidence on setting and refining food safety standards that allay current concerns.

JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 15 THE GROWER

FOOD SAFETY

Like yogurt, a culture of food safety must multiply every day

“

0 Pathogens do not know the size of an operation. The total food supply chain must be strong in ever y link.”

KAREN DAVIDSON What’s the number one threat to the produce industry? A food recall is the likely answer, but not far behind is fear of not being compliant with multiple food safety regimes. While the U.S. is undergoing massive change with its Food Safety Modernization Act, Canada is also updating requirements under the Safe Food for Canadians Act. From a process perspective, all the heavy lifting is right now for stakeholders to analyse proposals and submit comments for review. The dual modernization process is placing unprecedented pressure on growers and shipper-packers. “Staying compliant with both customer-demanded Global Food Safety Initiative audits in addition to government-regulated and legislated changes is challenging,” says Stephanie Lariviere, regulatory manager for Erie James Limited and Sunsation Acres Inc., Leamington, Ontario. “Multiple audits are costly and put heavy pressure on recordkeeping. We are optimistic that harmonization of best practices is possible but collaboration and feedback between stakeholders and government are key.” Stateside, one of the most contentious provisions – the Tester Amendment – could exempt small owner-operators from full requirements. Freedom from compliance is not sitting well with the industry at large whose reputation and investment in food safety compliance could be shattered with a single food recall. The Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA) did not support this exemption. “Pathogens do not know the size of an operation,” says Lariviere who sits on CPMA’s food safety committee and participates in the regulatory modernization working group. “The total food supply chain must be strong in every link.” Lariviere is someone who knows. She has been on the front line for 19 years, starting with grading, packing and sorting on the warehouse floor. She quickly moved into office administration, accounting and inventory control. By virtue of hands-on experience in most elements of the integrated business, she’s a natural to oversee food safety and traceability. She has participated in the voluntary Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism Program since 2003 and became a certified Safe Quality Food (SQF) practitioner in 2008. She serves actively on the Ontario Greenhouse Vegetable Growers’ Food Safety Committee and was recently re-appointed for her third term on the Stakeholders’ Advisory Committee for CanadaGAP. She participated in the first

~ Stephanie Lariviere

Stephanie Lariviere, regulatory manager for Erie James Ltd and Sunsation Acres Inc., Leamington, Ontario is on the frontline of food safety changes in the U.S. and Canada. Photo by Glenn Lowson.

HAND WASHING LAVADO DE MANOS

Agricultural Chapter of Safety Groups and most recently, became a director of CanAgPlus which operates the CanadaGAP program. “It is paramount to have your front-line employees involved in the process,” says Lariviere. “Our motto is: If you see something, say something.” A culture of food safety is like yogurt – a starter batch must be replaced regularly. Here are some of the tools that Lariviere uses in the plant every day. • Internal Responsibility System which encourages every employee to report food safety/health and safety or security concerns immediately • Good Manufacturing Practices/Good Agricultural Practices posters are displayed prominently in all employee traffic areas to remind staff of food safety compliance before they enter the production areas. • Food safety/security training reviews are conducted to include both new and existing employees. Management meeting reviews reinforce our commitment to food safety from the top down and identify opportunities for continuous improvement.

PAGE 16 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

FOOD SAFETY

CanadaGAP 2013: a year of change and transformation HEATHER GALE CanadaGAP is a food safety program for companies that produce, pack and store fruits and vegetables. It is designed to help implement effective food safety procedures within fresh produce operations. Audit and certification services for the program are delivered by third party, accredited Certification Bodies. The program has been benchmarked and officially recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI). Two manuals, one specific to Greenhouse operations, the second for other fruit and vegetable operations, have been developed by the horticultural industry and reviewed for technical soundness by Canadian government officials. The manuals are designed for companies implementing Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and maintaining an effective food safety program. The manuals are based on a rigorous hazard analysis applying the seven principles of the internationally-recognized HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical

Control Point) approach. 2012-13 is the fifth complete season of operation for the CanadaGAP Program. CanadaGAP has seen another action-packed year, but what sets it apart is the degree of change and transformation. Among the many activities successfully undertaken this year, the following include the major highlights and milestones achieved.

program. Work has continued throughout 2013, with plans to roll out the integrated program by 2014. Stay tuned for an upcoming announcement regarding the availability of CanadaGAP certification Option D for repackers and wholesalers. GFSI Recognition

Incorporation In September 2012, CanadaGAP became an independently operated program under a new not-for-profit corporation called CanAgPlus. All participants enrolled in the CanadaGAP Program became eligible for membership in CanAgPlus as of November 1, 2012. An interim Board of Directors was appointed by the two founding organizations, the Canadian Horticultural Council (CHC) and the Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA). Communication activities last fall were numerous and included a revamp of the website and rebranding to reflect the new corporate governance

structure, etc. Board of Directors Since CanAgPlus’ incorporation last September (2012), an appointed group of volunteers has served as the Board of Directors for CanadaGAP. Heartfelt appreciation and gratitude are extended to this group of six dedicated professionals who have provided guidance, support and strategic direction to management over

the course over CanAgPlus’ first year of operation. I wish to personally thank Board Chair Tom Byttynen, Vice-Chair Jack Bates, and directors Hugh Bowman, Beth Pattillo, Grant Hackman and Claude Laniel for their leadership, commitment and vision. An elected Board of Directors will be chosen by members during CanAgPlus’s first Annual General Meeting. First Annual General Meeting Significant effort this year has gone into planning and preparing for the first Annual General Meeting of the new corporation. This has entailed: • Review of the original set of By-laws to ensure they will work for CanAgPlus and are consistent in all respects with the Canadian Not-for-Profit Corporations Act. • Establishment of the nominations Committee by the Board of Directors • Call for Nominations in June 2013, with a deadline of August 2013 • Refinement of Voting Policy and Procedures and Mailed-in Ballot process • Sponsorship drive • Communication with members about the AGM, registration, candidates for the Board, voting, etc. Integration of CPMA Repacking and Wholesale Food Safety Program Discussion began in 2009 between the CHC and CPMA about the potential to consolidate CanadaGAP and the CPMA’s Repacking and Wholesale Food Safety Program (RWFSP). A formal study was undertaken in 2010 on the feasibility of merging CanadaGAP and RWFSP to create a single integrated standard and a standalone not-for-profit corporation. The study concluded this was a feasible initiative and in 2012 members of both organizations made a final decision to proceed with merging the two programs. This course of action was recommended to limit potential exposure to liability associated with administering a food safety

CanadaGAP became the first Canadian food safety program to be officially recognized by the Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) in January 2010. Re-benchmarking was required to the new version (6) of the GFSI requirements in 2012. This was successfully achieved with formal re-recognition by GFSI in January 2013 for CanadaGAP certification options B and C. Participation Trends Approximately 2,400 producers are now CanadaGAP-certified, representing an increase of 17 per cent since November 1, 2012. More than 2,000 applications for program enrollment have been processed by CanadaGAP staff since the program was launched in 2008. The following participation trends are of particular note for 2013: • The first enrollees from Newfoundland and Labrador joined the program this season • In the past year, CanadaGAP also saw the first enrollment from the Yukon Territory • There has been a surge in farm level participation, as certified packinghouses request food safety compliance from growers in response to new requirements from retail/food service • Noticeable rise in enrollments among certain sectors (BC blueberry, ON greenhouse, etc.) • Increasing rates of participation by producers in the U.S. • Proportional increase in individuals choosing Option C (annual audit), now comprising 40 per cent of all certified companies • The trend is away from the fouryear audit cycle options (A1 and A2), which now stand at 30 per cent of all CanadaGAP enrollments • 30% of participating producers are enrolled in a group certification option. This rate has remained stable for the past few years • 2013 marks the five-year anniversary for initial program participants who enrolled when CanadaGAP was first launched. These growers have now successfully completed their first four-year audit cycle. • The Tree Fruit industry continues to lead enrollment figures

CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE

JANUARY 2014 â&#x20AC;&#x201C;â&#x20AC;&#x201C; PAGE 17 THE GROWER

FOOD SAFETY

CanadaGAP 2013: a year of change and transformation CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

# audits reported 2013

1031

2012

771

2011

557

Number of CanadaGAP Audits reporting period from September 1 to August 31, 2013 Audit Trends Audit scores remain consistently high. This has been a steady trend over the years, across provinces and commodities. This trend shows a general consistency in audit results and in the implementation and interpretation of requirements.

work of more than 1,500 offices and laboratories around the world. SGS joined QMI-SAI Global, NSF-GFTC and Bureau de normalisation du QuĂŠbec (BNQ) in the list of available certification bodies for CanadaGAP. See www.canadagap.ca for further information about all four CanadaGAP-approved certification bodies. Other Certification Body News â&#x20AC;˘ Guelph Food Technology Centre (GFTC) was acquired by NSF International, a leading global certifier. The transition continues into 2014 as systems and processes for managing audit and certification services are merged. â&#x20AC;˘ QMI-SAI GLOBAL completed its corporate rebranding and is now officially known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;SAI GLOBAL.â&#x20AC;? Electronic Versions of Manuals

Auditors # Percentage auditors West

31%

Ontario

31%

Quebec Atlantic U.S.

10 4 1

26% 10% 3%

Auditors by region

â&#x20AC;˘ The auditor pool consists of 39 active and qualified CanadaGAP auditors (currently working for a Certification Body). This represents 27 per cent of those who have taken the CanadaGAP auditor training course and 37 per cent of those who passed the course. New Certification Body SGS Canada was licensed by CanAgPlus in April 2013 as the newest certification body offering CanadaGAP audits. SGS is a leading inspection, verification, testing and certification company with more than 75,000 employees worldwide. SGS operates a net-

CanadaGAP has collaborated with developers on a number of initiatives to automate the CanadaGAP Food Safety Manuals. These efforts are aimed at increasing the functionality and availability of the manuals, and at facilitating implementation of CanadaGAP. A longstanding partnership with Farm Credit Canada continues, as do several other cooperative alliances undertaken over the past year: â&#x20AC;˘ CanadaGAP Forms in Field Manager Pro software available from Farm Credit Canada â&#x20AC;˘ Inputtable versions of the manuals in Microsoft Word available through the Conseil quĂŠbĂŠcois de lâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;horticulture website, www.cqh.ca â&#x20AC;˘ BC Vegetable Marketing Commission offers the CanadaGAP Forms in Excel format from its website, www.bcveg.com, in bilingual versions (English-Spanish/ Chinese/ Punjabi) â&#x20AC;˘ JRS Virtual Studio is developing â&#x20AC;&#x153;Just Grow,â&#x20AC;? a web-based version of the CanadaGAP Manuals â&#x20AC;˘ CanadaGAP has been approached by software developers regarding a mobile app version of the Forms. The Manuals (PDF and

Microsoft Word versions) and Forms (PDF and Excel format) can be downloaded directly from the CanadaGAP website at www.canadagap.ca Relocation of CanadaGAP Office In September 2013 CanadaGAP found a new office space in Ottawaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s west end,

allowing staff to consolidate all program administration functions into a single, centrally-located space. The move meant a busy summer working to coordinate the installation of a new phone system and communication lines (with new phone and fax numbers), the rewiring and relocation of the server, negotiation of a new lease and equipment rentals, changes to insurance, and

communication efforts to advise members and other stakeholders of the change. Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s note: These are highlights of the CanadaGAP 2013 Annual Report. Heather Gale is the executive director, CanadaGAP Program, CanAgPlus.

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PAGE 18 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

FOOD SAFETY

Foreign suppliers to be verified under U.S. import laws Canadian produce exports to the United States are big business. Almost $1.2 billion – primarily tomatoes, mushrooms, peppers, onions and carrots – were shipped in 2010, according to Statistics Canada. All of that business is subject to the Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA), a law that moves the produce industry into the 21st century from emergency triage to prevention. The legislation responds to the tragedy of 34 deaths and 14,000 illnesses that have resulted from food-borne illness in the U.S. between 1996 and 2010. Signed into law just two years ago this month, FSMA rules are still being hammered out by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The proposed Produce Rule and the Preventive Control Rule have been published. Public comment closed on November 22, 2013. The proposed rules for the Foreign Supplier Verification Program (FSVP) and the Accreditation of Third-Party Auditors are currently open for comments until January 27. A key change is that food importers would now, unless exempt or subject to modified requirements, be responsible for ensuring the food they bring into the U.S. meets the FDA standards. For each food imported, they will be required to develop FSVPs that comply with U.S. standards including the Preventive Control and Produce Safety rules if applicable. In general importers will be required to conduct the following activities: compliance

status review of food and suppliers, hazard analysis, supplier verification activities, complaint reviews, investigations and corrective actions if necessary, Periodic reassessment of the FSVP, importer identification at entry, and recordkeeping. There are modified requirements for foods from countries whose food safety systems are recognized by FDA as comparable to that of the U.S. “So far, only New Zealand has received comparable system status,” says Sally Blackman, manager, food safety and nutrition for the Canadian Produce Marketing Association, although FDA has initiated a systems recognition assessment with Canada.” For those who export to the U.S., it’s expected that the Voluntary Qualified Importer Program (VQIP) will be of interest. Certifications issued by accredited Third Party Auditors could be used by FDA to determine eligibility of an importer for VQIP status. Draft guidelines are yet to come, says Blackman, however the intent is to expedite review and entry of produce from certified facilities. The Accreditation of Third Party Auditor proposed rule contains requirements for third-party auditors seeking accreditation and accreditation bodies seeking recognition by the FDA, with the intent to help ensure the competence and independence of the accreditation bodies and third-party auditors participating in the program.

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So far, only New Zealand has received comparable system status.” ~ Sally Blackman The proposed rule defines eligibility requirements for recognition as an accreditation body and accreditation as a third party. They could be a foreign government or government agency, a foreign cooperative or other private third party that meet requirements as to authority, competency, capacity, conflict of interest, quality assurance and records. The following are among FDA’s key new import authorities and mandates. Specific implementation dates specified in the law are noted in parentheses: • Importer accountability: For the first time, U.S. importers have an explicit responsibility to verify that foreign suppliers have adequate preventive controls in place to ensure that the food they produce is safe. (Final regulation and guidance due one year following enactment)

• Third Party Certification: The FSMA establishes a program through which qualified third parties can certify that foreign food facilities comply with U.S. food safety standards. This certification may be used to facilitate the entry of imports. (Establishment of a system for FDA to recognize accreditation bodies is due two years after enactment) • Certification for high risk foods: FDA has the authority to require that high-risk imported foods be accompanied by a credible third party certification or other assurance of compliance as a condition of entry into the U.S. • Voluntary qualified importer program: FDA must establish a voluntary program for importers that provides for expedited review and entry of foods from participating importers. Eligibility

is limited to, among other things, importers offering food from certified facilities. (Implementation due 18 months after enactment) • Authority to deny entry: FDA can refuse entry into the U.S. of food from a foreign facility if FDA is denied access by the facility or the country in which the facility is located. Stateside, the Produce Marketing Association’s Bob Whitaker, chief science and technology officer, recorded a YouTube video in mid-November that summarizes the key concerns going forward. On the Produce Rule, the PMA is not comfortable that it lacks provision for risk assessment. PMA also argues that quality of irrigation water is a thorny issue. “Testing has a role,” says Whitaker, “but current metrics are not appropriate for every crop.” As the process grinds on, watch for more detail as the final rules are expected by May 15, 2014. However, phase-in periods are allowed for up to six years in some facilities. Full implementation is still years away.

JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 19 THE GROWER

FOOD SAFETY

Choosing the right cleaning and sanitizing products WAYNE DU, ON-FARM FOOD SAFETY SPECIALIST Food safety programs are becoming a requirement of doing business in Ontario. The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food (OMAF) and the Ministry of Rural Affairs (MRA) are here to help you keep up to date on the latest food safety practices. An effective food safety program helps you meet your buyer requirements, expand your market opportunity and continue to keep Ontario’s food safe. Cleaning and sanitizing are critical steps in ensuring the food you produce is safe. If done improperly food can be contaminated. All surfaces that may contact the food product directly or indirectly, such as utensils, knives, tables, cutting boards, conveyor belts, bins, hands, aprons, floors, walls and many others must be properly cleaned and sanitized. Cleaning and sanitizing are two different processes and achieve different outcomes, although the terms are often used interchangeably. Cleaning is a process to remove visible dirt,

organic matters (e.g. organic soil), chemical residues and microorganisms from surfaces or objects. Cleaning doesn’t kill those microorganisms but only removes them or lower their numbers. Sanitizing is a process where clean surfaces or objects undergo a treatment that reduces or kills microorganisms to a safe level. Cleaning and sanitizing often go hand in hand. Sanitizing won’t work effectively without a thorough cleaning first. Good cleaning and sanitizing practices start with the right cleaning and sanitizing products. • Ensure products are approved for the intended use in Canada. Products used should remove dirt and kill microorganisms but not contaminate food. Ask your suppliers for approved and appropriate cleaning and sanitizing products, or refer to the “Reference Listing of Accepted Construction Materials and packaging materials and Non-Food Chemical Products” from the Canadian Food Inspection Agency www.inspection.gc.ca (Search> reference listing of accepted materials)

Chemical

Advantages

Disadvantages

Rates for use (ppm) Submerged in Solution

In spray bottle

Chlorine

- Kill most microorganisms - Effective at low temperature - Inexpensive

- Corrode metal and weaken rubber - Unstable at high temperature - Not effective with organic matters

100

200

Quats (Quaternary Ammonium Compounds)

- Non corrosive - Residual activity if not rinsed - Less affected by organic materials

- Ineffective for certain microorganisms - Inactivated by most detergents - May be inactivated by hard water

200

200-400 (May need final rinse-refer to label)

Iodine

- Kill most microorganisms - Less affected by organic materials - Colour indicates activity

- May stain plastic and porous materials - In activated above 49ºC

10025

20-50 (Follow label)

Table 1. Examples of sanitizers for common equipment and surfaces • Select the right product for the right job. Not all sanitizers work the same. Here are some examples. • It is important to select the products that are safe for use on

your surface or equipment. If the products cause the surface or equipment that is being cleaned and sanitized to deteriorate, it will be much more difficult to keep them clean. Choose products that are effective and get the job done, but cause no or minimum damage to your equipment or facility. • Different surface materials have different reactions to different cleaners and sanitizers. For example, some products such as caustic alkaline or acidic cleaners may be effective in removing dirt and food residues but they can also be corrosive to softer metals such as aluminum, coppers or lower grades of steel. The best source for product use information is the manufacturer’s label. Factors such as product unique attributes (e.g. odour and colour), storage and mixing requirements for water pH, water hardness and

temperature, presence of organic matters, cost and even environmental impact should be considered when choosing the right product as these factors can also affect the effectiveness of the products and consequently food safety and quality. For further information on effective cleaning and sanitizing procedures see http://www.omafra.gov.on.ca/english/food/inspection/fruitveg/sanitation_guide/cs-guidebook.htm Food safety is everyone’s responsibility. Make food safety training your priority! To attend one of our free online workshops on Cleaning and Sanitizing and other important food safety topics, visit us at: www.ontario.ca/foodsafety or call: 1-877-424-1300. Food safety practices keep agri-food businesses competitive, productive and sustainable.

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PAGE 20 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

All about blueberry maggot Introduction HANNA FRASER, OMAF AND MRA Blueberry maggot (BM) is a direct pest of both highbush and lowbush blueberries. Infested berries are considered unmarketable, as there is no tolerance for larvae in either fresh market or processed fruit. While BM is native to eastern North America, including New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island, and the eastern United States, it has spread westward to parts of Insect pest

Head (other)

Blueberry maggot

1). Their bodies are “carrotshaped”: tapered or pointed at one end and blunt at the other. Two black mouth-hooks are visible on the pointed end, while six distinct brown breathing holes (spiracles) are found on the blunt end; these features are difficult to see without magnification. Small BM larvae are easily confused with the invasive spotted wing drosophila larvae (SWD), except these appear more tapered at both ends. There are several other larvae that can be found in blueberries (Table 1). There is usually only one BM larva per berry versus several larvae per berry with Legs (other)

week period. Due to extended emergence, egg laying activity can continue until early September. Eggs are deposited under the skin of ripening blueberries that have begun to colour. The developing maggot consumes the pulp of the berry, causing it to collapse. Larvae remain in the ripening fruit for several weeks, and may be present at the time of harvest. Infested fruit may ripen and soften prematurely. Mature larvae exit the fruit and drop to the soil, where they pupate at depths up to five cm. A small percentage of pupae will remain in the soil for more than one year. Colour

Size of mature larva

No head capsule (black No legs mouth hooks)

Cream

8 mm, pointed at one end, blunt at the other

Cranberry fruitworm

Brown head capsule

3 pairs legs (plus abdominal prolegs)

Light green 9-10 mm

Plum curculio

Brown head capsule

No legs

Cream

7-9 mm, C-shaped

Spotted wing drosophila

No head capsule (black No legs mouth hooks)

Cream

5-6 mm, tapered at both ends

Figure 1: Blueberry maggot larva in fruit. Photo credit: Rufus Isaacs, Michigan State University

Figure 2: Female blueberry maggot female. Photo credit: Rufus Isaacs, MSU

Table 1: Distinguishing Insect Larvae Found in Blueberry Fruit southwestern Quebec (1993) and parts of southwestern Ontario (1996). The Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) has developed regulations to prevent the spread to non-infested areas. D-02-04: Phytosanitary Requirements for the Importation from the Continental United States and for Domestic Movement of Commodities Regulated for Blueberry Maggot outlines what growers must do when they are producing blueberries in infested areas or on infested farms. The regulation is outlined at http://inspection.gc.ca/plants/plant -protection/directives/horticulture/d-02-04/eng/1320046578973/ 1320046655958. Despite these restrictions, BM has continued to spread. Blueberry maggot has now been detected at 23 sites across Ontario and 30% of sites in the southwestern region. Eight new sites were identified in 2013 and three in 2012. All infestations of BM must be reported to the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. Identification The BM has 4 life stages: egg, larva (“maggot”), pupa and adult fly. Monitoring generally involves checking for larvae in fruit and adults in traps, as other life stages are difficult to detect. Mature larvae are lightcoloured, 8mm in length and with no obvious head capsule (Figure

SWD. The adult BM is a fly that is slightly smaller than a housefly, about four-five mm in length. The body is shiny black with a white dot on the thorax. Females are slightly larger than males, with four white pale lines on the abdomen (versus three in males) and a needle-like ovipositor that is visible when extended (Figure 2). The most characteristic feature is the dark brown F-shaped pattern on their wings, which can be used to distinguish it from several other fruit flies (Figure 3 – inset photos). Note that the wing pattern of BM flies is very similar in appearance to that of apple maggot (AM) flies. Other distinguishing features between BM and AM adults include the length of the female’s ovipositor and colour patterns on the legs. These characteristics may be difficult to observe on a sticky card, and so confirmation by a taxonomic specialist is required. Period of activity There is one generation per year (Figure 3). Adults emerge from overwintering pupae in the soil from late June through early July, depending on local weather conditions and soil moisture. Newly emerged adults are sexually immature. Prior to mating and egg-laying, adults must feed on nectar, honeydew and organic matter for seven-10 days. Females lay up to 100 eggs over a three-

Fly emergence is enhanced where soils are moist. Blueberry maggot is a regulated pest How are regulated areas determined? The CFIA conducts detection surveys for BM every year to identify new positive sites or townships outside of regulated areas. In Ontario, areas are regulated by township or at the level of individual growers. A township is regulated if there is at least one infested natural (wild) site within the township OR there are host plants growing within 500 metres of an infested grower site. Natural sites are not managed, and therefore they represent a continuous source for re-infestation of nearby grower sites. If there are no host plants located within 500 metres of the infested grower site then only that site will be regulated, not the entire township. At locations where BM has not been detected previously, the detection if a single fly on a trap can result in a stop shipment order from the CFIA, regardless of a grower’s spray program. If BM is detected at a new site – just one fly on a trap - growers are ordered to stop all movement of blueberry fruit off the farm. This can happen right in the middle of harvest. Blueberry Certification Program

Figure 3: Blueberry maggot life cycle. Wing patterns of similar species are shown. Photo credit: Adapted from MAPAQ

Where BM has been detected, either at the township or the individual site level, growers can apply to be on a Blueberry Certification Program (BCP) so that they can move regulated commodities outside of the area. Before the beginning of the growing season and prior to approval into the BCP, first time participants growers need to be trained by the CFIA on the components of the program including: biology and identification, field monitoring, cultural and chemical control measures, fruit sampling and testing and product grading to identify suspect fruit. Applications must be submitted at least two weeks prior to the expected emergence of the adults, and the approval must be renewed each year. Monitoring for adult flies is the foundation for managing BM and is a key component in the BCP. Traps must be monitored at least twice a week until all the fruit has been harvested. Growers on the BCP can choose to control

BM using an IPM program or an approved calendar spray program. They can choose to have CFIA do the monitoring or they can do their own. In either situation, they are required to apply insecticides if and when BM is caught on traps and can continue to ship fruit unless it is found to be infested with larvae. Fruit sampling is generally conducted by the CFIA. There are several insecticides registered for control of BM. Most commercial growers are now spraying to control spotted wing drosophila (SWD) through the berry ripening period, and some (but not all) of the products used for control should also keep BM in check. Cultural practices such as sanitation, pruning, and weed management can help reduce blueberry maggot infestations on the farm. All unharvested berries should be removed from the field. Clean picking and destruction of fallen berries or cull piles help to destroy any larvae present in fruit and thus reduce re-infestation.

JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 21 THE GROWER

BERRY FOCUS

New products for berry crops PAM FISHER, BERRY CROP SPECIALIST, OMAF AND MRA OMAF staff are busy updating publication #360, Guide to Fruit Production. Many, many changes have taken place since the last edition was published in 2012. Here is a quick update on new products for berry crops, more detail will be provided in the new publication. Check the label for rates, preharvest intervals and specific precautions. INSECTICIDES (product name is followed by registration number, active ingredient, insecticide group and registrant)

Mesh Bagging and Weighing systems

Actara 25 WG (# 28408, thiamethoxam, Group 4, Syngenta). Registered for brown marmorated stink bug suppression on blueberry, elderberry, saskatoon berry and other bushberries. Registered for control of black vine weevil adults on raspberries, bushberries and strawberries.

Japanese beetle.

Altacor (# 28981, chlorantraniliprole, Group 28, DuPont). Recently registered for leafroller control on strawberries. Existing registrations include control of many different caterpillars on bushberries (Crop Group 13-07B and raspberries and blackberries. Although it works best on Lepidoptera (caterpillar pests), Altacor will also suppress

Clutch 50 WDG (# 29382, clothianidin, Group 4, Valent). Registered for tarnished plant bug control in strawberries, but must be used well before bloom because it is very toxic to bees. This is not the best timing for tarnished plant bug.

BioProtec CAF (#26854, Bacillus thuringiensis, Group 11, AEF Global). The label of this product has been expanded to include all the berry crop group (13-07) for leafroller and fruitworm control.

Exirel (#30895, cyantraniliprole, Group 28, DuPont). Registered on bushberries (Crop Group 13-07B) for blueberry maggot, plum curculio, Japanese beetle, cranberry fruitworm, leafrollers, and blueberry aphid. Intrepid 240 F (#27786, methoxyfenozide, Group 18, Dow). Controls spanworms, obliquebanded leafroller and cranberry fruitworm in blueberries and other bushberries in Crop Group 13 07-B. An insect growth regulator, Intrepid is the first product in Group 18 to be registered on berry crops.

Bag Closing Systems, Sales, Service, Parts

Kanemite 15 SC (#28641, acequinocyl, Group 20B, Arysta). Registered for two-spotted mite control on raspberries and blackberries. Malathion 85E (# 8372, malathion, Group 1B, Loveland). Registered for brown marmorated

Early summer Rally Early Summer will provide outstanding fruit quality

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stink bug (BMSB) suppression in blackberries, blueberries, strawberries and raspberries. So far BMSB is not a problem in Ontario berry crops. Movento (#28953, spirotetramat, Group 23, Bayer). Registered for control of blueberry maggot and blueberry aphid and suppression of lecanium scale on blueberries and other bushberries in Crop Group 13—07H and 13-07B. For use after bloom. Pyrinex 480 EC (#23705, chlorpyrifos, Group 1B, MANA) and Warhawk 480 EC (#29984, chlorpyrifos, Group 1B, Loveland). This active ingredient was formerly registered as Lorsban and is now registered on strawberries for cutworm and strawberry crown borer control. FUNGICIDES (product name is followed by registration number, active ingredient, fungicide group and registrant) Confine Extra (#3064, monoand di-potassium salts of phosphoric acid, Group 33, Agronomy Co. of Canada). Registered for suppression of anthracnose fruit rot on blueberries and leather rot on strawberries. Granuflo-T (#30548, thiram, Group M, Engage Agro) and Thiram 75 WP (#27556, thiram, Group M, Chemtura). Registered for Botrytis grey mould control on strawberries. This broadspectrum fungicide is useful for rotation with other groups in a resistance management program.

Proline 480 SC (#28359, prothioconazole, Group 3, Bayer). This is another group 3 product, registered for mummyberry control and suppression of leaf rust on blueberries. It is also registered on bushberries for some other minor diseases; see the label. Quash (#30402, metconazole, Group 3, Valent). Another group 3 fungicide, registered in highbush blueberries for control of mummyberry and anthracnose and suppression of phomopsis. Scala (#28011, pyrimethanil, Group 9, Bayer). Registered for Botrytis on blueberries, raspberries, and gooseberries. Probably most useful for fall-bearing raspberries, where Botrytis can be a serious problem and products with short preharvest intervals are needed. Senator 70WP (#25343, thiophante-methyl, Group 1, Engage Agro). This fungicide can be used for common leaf spot control in strawberries and powdery mildew control in raspberries. Be aware that although Senator is labelled for Botrytis grey mould, Botrytis is resistant to thiophanate-methyl in many regions, including Ontario. Scholar 230 SC (# 29528, fludioxonil, Group 12, Syngenta). Registered for black root rot suppression in new and established strawberries. Can be applied as a high-volume spray to the soil or through drip irrigation systems.

PAGE 22 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

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JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 23 THE GROWER

MARKETPLACE

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PRUNING

Good Reasons to Contract Your Pruning: • Experienced crew • Exact costing • Free estimates • Job completion on time • No additional costs associated with general labour • Improved quality • reduced harvesting and maintenance costs

Available anywhere in Ontario! Simply the best approach to this important factor of fruit production

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PAGE 24 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

MARKETPLACE

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Munckhof Orchard Sprayers Votex Shredders and Mowers Orchard Equipment and Supplies Pruning Tools

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JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 25 THE GROWER

MARKETPLACE

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PAGE 26 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER

MINOR USE CRAIG’S COMMENTS

Processing is being ‘Buffetted’ in Ontario

CRAIG HUNTER OFVGA Who is going to be the next casualty? Canada keeps losing agricultural processors at an inordinate pace, and there is not enough understanding about why. Until those in a position to alter the formula are willing to act, we will continue to see more erosion of the processing base, and inevitably the production base that our farmers supply. Back in the early days of my career, we had many processors of fruit and vegetables across Ontario. There were even ‘start-ups’ happening like Produce Processors of Trenton, and the ill-fated SOTCA tomato operation in St. Thomas. There were still several relatively small processing plants operating in small towns in both eastern and southwestern Ontario. There were even a few still going in Niagara. In total about 35 plants on the ground. Today there are less than half a dozen left. At first it was the lack of justification for the small-sized plants and the need to ‘modernize,’ while the costs were too high. Production moved to other nearby plants and growers could keep their production contracts going with a longer drive for deliveries. Then it was the final closures in a region and the shift of all production to one or two Ontario plants in the name of ‘efficiency.’ Many growers lost their contracts and others got an increase so they too were more efficient. Production was still based in Ontario. Things changed again. It started with tobacco when

Imperial closed its Guelph plant and began to manufacture only in Mexico. Local production of raw tobacco nose-dived and more leaf was sourced from outside Canada, at a much lower cost. Others have followed. When the Bicks operations were shut down, first in Scarborough and then in Dunnville, the production base went off-shore as well. The plant remains idle, and there is a reason! Jobs are a hot political button, and it is not unfathomable to guess that moving jobs from anywhere back to the U.S. could result in significant largesse. It could be tax savings or credits, it could be tax-free locations, job incentives, or whatever one might dream up. Canada does it too -just not as well, or as often, or to the same degree. Nonetheless, the jobs are gone and so too is the production base. When the former Nabisco cannery in St. David’s (Niagara) closed down, it was the last significant such operation in Canada. The production base for that plant (cling-stone peaches) was ripped from the ground immediately, and is now fulfilled with imported produce. Gone too was a big pear market, but fortunately those Bartlett pears could find a home in the fresh market as they are a rare dual-use variety. In mid-November, the Heinz closure took many by surprise. The fall-out is yet to be calculated, but it is enormous. Growers of many processing vegetable crops will look elsewhere for a home for some of them, but the vast majority of the land will flip to another crop and Canadians will eat more imported product. The downward spiral of the Canadian dietary source of processed fruit and vegetables will continue. It is no coincidence that high value and in many cases higher users of farm labour face the biggest losses. They are not alone however. Just a month ago, Kelloggs announced closure of its London Ontario facility. Some years back the Cadbury Schweppes Powell grape processing plant in St. Catharines was closed, and the vast majority of grapes is now crushed in the

The Heinz plant, owned by Warren Buffet’s Berkshire Hathaway, is slated to close in Leamington next June. U.S. These are mostly mechanized crops but their production too has been lost due to ‘efficiencies.’ Canadian shoppers vote with their dollars, and they consistently vote to buy what is cheaper regardless of source. They do not have allegiance to local production for processed commodities -often they do not know where it was grown as labels are not forthcoming. There is support for fresh, but on storable commodities like apples, potatoes, carrots and cabbage, the support wanes soon after harvest. When a large ‘old’ factory closes for any length of time, it is almost impossible to re-start. Many of the old employees who know how to ‘make it work’ disappear. Equipment gets cannibalized, or falls apart due to neglect. The old plant likely costs more for fixing than the cost of a brand new rules-compliant plant would be. The location is likely all wrong now due to restrictions on noise, odour and infrastructure needs. Just like a church is just a building, so too is an old plant. It is the people in both cases that give it meaning and purpose. I suspect other plants will also be lost. Too often people look at the bricks and mortar and try to save that, and miss the point (and the mark!). If anyone truly wants to put a halt to such demises, they need to think way ahead. There is a lesson to be (re)learned here. After WWII, factories in Great Britain were on their knees. Rapid expansion had thrown up shoddy and quick-fix facilities, and most were only worth tearing down. They had

served their purpose. Retrenching of production volumes meant many factories were already obsolete. The re-tooling back to peacetime production of consumer goods was expensive, and equipment was at a premium. Many machines on ‘lend-lease’ had to be pulled out and sent back to the U.S. or be destroyed. Industry lanquished. Meanwhile, under the Marshall Plan, Germany and later Japan were able to access new modern factories and equipment at zero or close to zero cost. Soon, the victors were falling behind the vanquished in the marketplace as they could not compete. Industry in Britain fell on tough times for many years, and only slowly reversed the trend with strong government action. So too here, we are faced with losing our competitive advantages. It will do little or nothing to keep tired old plants going if the owners cannot pencil in a profit. If the competition elsewhere can get new factories, tax breaks, and other incentives, then we have to do better! Plus, we have to do it sooner! What we need is a “(Fill in the name) Plan” similar to the Marshall Plan to completely restructure our food processing industry to put it on a par with those competing against us. We have shown we can be efficient (The Heinz plant was their #2 in efficiency of all their operations). Our growers have proven they can grow top quality and deliver on their contracts. It just takes someone with gumption and a vision to ‘make it happen.’ Canada has lost auto production plants too. However,

governments have stepped up to the plate with huge incentives to modernize plants, to provide training facilities, to assist the supply chain companies with incentives to locate here, and other assistance programs. To be fair, governments have tried to stave off plant loss in agriculture with millions of dollars as well, but too little too late seems to describe it. ‘We’ need to be going to every plant owner well in advance and probably quite routinely to seek their needs. ‘We’ need to foster a relationship that makes this a destination to come to build new facilities, not a place to take them away! We have crop production advantages that other locations would die to have. We have a huge potential market within a day’s truck ride. We have willing towns and willing workers. What is missing is the ‘connect’ between our governments and the owners of such industries. Without that, we will have more casualties. Just like in war, an estimate of casualties is made before every battle. Many will die, but if the number is lower than the estimate, somehow the planners feel good. No one should feel good about ANY further losses in our sector. The industry cannot sustain this in the long term. The time to act is now. We may not catch-up (no pun intended) right away, but we can start right now to reverse the trend. To paraphrase a famous statesman, ‘Never might so much be owed by so many to so few, if they would just get it done!’

The best oﬀense is a good defense. So switch on your crops’ natural defenses and protect them from disease with Regalia Maxx.

engageagro.com

JANUARY 2014 –– PAGE 27 THE GROWER

MINOR USE

Pesticide industry pushes for broader look at bee health CropLife Canada responded to the Pest Management Regulatory Agency's (PMRA) request for public input on its Notice of Intent regarding bees and neonicotinoid pesticides. The national trade association supports the concrete steps PMRA has outlined for the 2014 planting season, but has underscored the importance of finding science-based solutions rather than capitulating to pressure created by activist groups with known anti-farm agendas. "Neonicotinoid pesticides help farmers protect their crops from insect attacks at the vulnerable seed and seedling stages," said Pierre Petelle, vice president of chemistry at CropLife Canada. "Coating the seed means less pesticide is used and beneficial insects like bees are less much less likely to come into contact with the insecticide." The CropLife Canada submission, which is available for review at www.croplife.ca, builds on the industry's ongoing commitment to work collaboratively to find ways of reducing unintended exposure to neonicotinoid dust. Other examples of the industry's actions include: • Improved labeling of treated seeds • Introduction of best management practices designed to help farmers reduce the amount of dust created during planting • Development of a dust-reducing lubricant and commitment to work with agriculture partners to make sure that the new product is used in 2014 seeding operations

Photo by Glenn Lowson

• Improved information-sharing with farmers and beekeepers • Support for research initiatives, including a five-year national bee disease study "We remain supportive of the efforts being undertaken to reduce unintended exposure of bees to neonicotinoids, but we are gravely concerned about the fact that the various other threats to bee health are being overlooked," Petelle said. Also being overlooked are the many facts that paint a more detailed picture of the true state of bee health in Canada. For example, bee health in Western Canada is strong despite the fact that there is approximately 20 million acres of canola planted every year, the majority of which has been treated with neonicotinoids. Additionally, honeybee colony numbers in both Ontario and Quebec have steadily increased since neonicotinoids were introduced approximately 10 years ago. "Bee health is complex and there are several other factors can contribute to the kinds of unusual losses that a small number of beekeepers in very specific regions have experienced," Petelle said. "Getting to the bottom of this situation is of paramount importance, but we have to look for solutions that are rooted in science if we expect them to have a meaningful impact." SOURCE: CropLife Canada

Website launched for airblast spraying advice America. The website will serve as a one-stop shop for airblast sprayer information and provide

Ontario’s airblast sprayer operators regularly apply pesticides to ensure the health and marketability of their tree fruit, nursery, berry and vine crops. Their success relies on three things: an understanding of safe pesticide handling, criteria for what and when to spray, and having the requisite skill to apply pesticides effectively and efficiently. Until recently, operators had few if any resources to address the final point. Airblast 101 is a four hour classroom-based course designed to provide participants with practical tools to allow them to apply pesticides, plant growth modifiers and foliar nutrients in an effective, economic and environmentally-responsible manner. Developed by the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture and Food and the Ministry of Rural Affairs (OMAF/MRA) and funded by Croplife Canada, this course was created to introduce a new operator to spraying, or to refresh a seasoned veteran. Since its introduction in 2011,

hundreds of operators have received a solid grounding in the basics of airblast sprayer operation, as well as advanced techniques. Those that have made changes to their spray programs report significant improvement in the effectiveness of the application (i.e. improved crop quality and/or yield) and greater application efficiency (e.g. pesticide inputs reduced by ~10 per cent or more per annum and reduced environmental impact such as drift and runoff). Thanks to the continuing financial support of Croplife Canada, Airblast 101 goes live at www.sprayers101.com and www.sprayers101.ca on January 1st, 2014. The website hosts all the content in the participant’s handbook, but also includes a library of additional resources such as: • factsheets, • a series of sprayer-related PowerPoint presentations, • instructional videos, and • articles submitted by extension and university staff across North

information about where Airblast 101 courses are being taught. The website is free to anyone interested in improving their

spray programs. For more information contact jason.deveau@ontario.ca

PAGE 28 –– JANUARY 2014 THE GROWER