From negative farm incomes, to greenhouse gas emissions, to urban sprawl, Canadian farmers and processors face a broad range of economic, environmental, and social challenges – challenges that are threatening the very existence of regional agriculture communities and food systems.
It’s becoming increasingly clear that if farming is going to remain a viable industry, widespread change and reform are required. And that change has to begin today.
Enter Local Food Plus. LFP was incorporated as a non-profit in October 2005. In September 2006, we launched our program in partnership with the University of Toronto, the largest university in Canada. With this partnership, the U of T became the first university on the continent to formally commit to purchasing local sustainable food for cafeterias and residences across the St. George campus. In August 2007, we changed our name from Local Flavour Plus to Local Food Plus.
At LFP, we recognize the need for a community economic development and job creation strategy, the importance of reducing greenhouse gas emissions, and the benefits of a food system that supports positive change for all stakeholders.
That’s why we’ve developed a certification system that puts these economic, environmental and social issues at the forefront, where they belong. The LFP system addresses production, labour, native habitat preservation, animal welfare, and on-farm energy use, and leverages these standards to open new higher-value markets for Canadian farmers.
In short, LFP is committed to creating local sustainable food systems that reduce reliance on fossil fuels, create meaningful jobs, and foster the preservation of farmland – and farmers.
Certified Local Sustainable
food is sold at restaurants, stores, farms, markets, and institutions across Canada