Governments to fund 289 food safety projects on Manitoba farms
From MyToba
The Canada and Manitoba governments will invest nearly $1.5 million in 289 on-farm food safety projects, Federal Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz and Manitoba Agriculture, Food and Rural Development Minister Ron Kostyshyn announced Thursday.
“Canadian farmers are globally recognized for producing safe and high quality products,” said Ritz. “Our government is proud to invest in projects like these that help meet consumer demands and provide growth and prosperity opportunities for our farmers.”
Manitoba farmers applied for funding to improve biosecurity, traceability, food safety and quality, and animal health practices on their farms. The governments provided up to 65 per cent of total eligible costs.
“On-farm food safety is a priority for Manitoba’s farmers,” said Kostyshyn. “These projects will help ensure producers have the resources and tools available to continue implementing best practices. The program is tailored to meet the needs of Manitoba farms and supports our shared commitment to provide safe food to consumers.”
More than half of all projects (165) will take place on hog farms. Projects were also approved for beef (46), poultry (40) and bee (22) operations. Sixteen projects were funded on dairy, horticulture, grains and oilseeds and other livestock farms.