A recent study suggests new Canadians are an opportunity for expansion for Ontario farmers.
The study looked at the eating patterns, shopping habits and taste preferences of new Canadians in the Greater Toronto Area.
Ontario Sheep Chair Dennis Fisher says it showed a preference for the taste and quality of Ontario-produced meats over those that are imported.
The Ontario Sheep Marketing Agency and the Ontario Livestock Alliance commissioned the study.
The Alliance includes Ontario Veal and Ontario Goat.
Ontario Veal President Judy Dirksen says the changing demographics of the GTA mean that her organisation's members will have a growing number of potential customers for their products beyond their traditional customers.
The study encourages producer associations to work with their members to grow their understanding of the demographics and preferences of the different ethnic markets.
It also encourages more and better linkages between farmers and processors to take advantage of those new market opportunities.
