A new program has launched to help Nova Scotia food and beverage producers expand.
The departments of Growth and Development and Agriculture have partnered with Perennia Food and Agriculture Corp on the Local Supplier Food Safety Support Pilot Program.
The provincial development agency will administer the program at a total estimated $1.5 million over two years.
According to the province, the pilot program will help with costs related to food safety standards such as training, assessment, program development, audit fees and facility upgrades. It will cover 100 per cent of eligible training costs, and 70 per cent of other eligible food safety costs, up to $20,000 per company.
Growth and Development Minister Colton LeBlanc says it means local producers can increase the demand and availability for their products while also removing barriers to interprovincial trade.
In a statement, Minister of Agriculture Greg Morrow says, “We’re proud to support Nova Scotia’s local producers. Right now, it’s more important than ever to find ways to help them stay strong in local markets and grow their businesses – both here at home and beyond.” Morrow says the program will make it easier for them to share their high-quality, safe food products with more Nova Scotia consumers.
Perennia CEO Lynne Godlien says, “Food safety is something that consumers often don’t see but is vital not only for the health of Nova Scotians, but for the growth of our food and beverage businesses. Having food safety plans and certifications opens new markets for our high-quality homegrown products and this program will be key to getting even more of them on the shelves.”
The co-owner of D’Eon’s Bakery Limited in West Pubnico says “As a proud fourth-generation Acadian small business, our team found the growing complexities of food safety certifications to be a significant challenge. Thanks to the support from NS Loyal, we’ve gained both the confidence and the tools to advance our business.”
Dan d’Eon adds, “We’re now looking to the future with optimism, making strategic investments to ensure we continue delivering the safest, highest-quality food products to our loyal customers. This growth also positions us to expand into new markets – both within Nova Scotia and beyond – while reinforcing our commitment to creating employment opportunities right here in rural Nova Scotia.”
