The past news week has offered up an interesting mix of stories from across Canada. From the exciting launch of a new network for Black food entrepreneurs and a new Ontario-based delivery service designed to support independent eateries to a pair of disheartening stories for both the Canadian hospitality and poultry industries, here are five food stories you might have missed this week.
Calgary businesses unfairly targeted by anti-mandate mob
Following the Alberta government’s recent announcement that it will soon be removing the Restrictions Exemption Program, businesses like Calgary’s beloved Ship and Anchor—who have elected to test the waters before making the full plunge back into normalcy—have become the victims of online hate and review bombing.
While it pains us to see local landmarks like the Ship come under unjust fire from vitriolic keyboard warriors who in many cases aren’t even Alberta residents, the community response from actual Albertans has been highly supportive of the businesses’ rights to choose how they proceed in the post-restriction era.
Visit the Calgary Citizen for more.
New resource for Black food entrepreneurs launches in Canada
Ontario hospitality industry veteran Janice Bartley recently founded a new project with the help of the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario that will offer Black food entrepreneurs mentorship, resources, hands-on experience, and individualized programs for businesses at various stages.
Foodpreneur Lab is currently accepting applications from entrepreneurs across Ontario who wish to join the network’s next cohort until February 28.
Head to Food Business News for more information.
Ontario restaurateur launches new food delivery service
A new food delivery service recently launched in Sudbury, Ontario to offer residents access to a slew of independent restaurants throughout the city.
Created by local restaurateur Matt Moutsastos, IndiEats hopes to bridge the gap between huge companies and chain restaurants, while cutting out a large portion of the fees that often cripple the independent food and beverage community.
Find the full story at CBC News.
Problems continue for Canadian poultry industry
After the discovery of avian influenza in a commercial poultry farm two weeks ago in Nova Scotia, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency recently imposed “movement restrictions” and has recommended “enhanced biosecurity” for other farmers in the region.
Although several countries have implemented temporary trade suspensions, since Canadian poultry is produced primarily for Canadians, organizations like Chicken Farms of Canada are optimistic that poultry restrictions won’t have a long-term effect on the industry.
Get the full story at CBC News.
Britain’s “oldest pub” closes after 1,229 years
An English pub that claims to be the oldest in Britain recently closed its doors for good following a series of financial and pandemic-related problems. While not exactly Canadian news per se, considering iconic Canadian pubs like the Ship and Anchor take their inspiration from institutions like Ye Olde Fighting Cocks, we felt it was worth commemorating.
Head to Food and Wine Magazine for more.
