The new NAFTA is in effect
Slightly off topic, but it seems worth noting that the CUSMA – i.e. the new North American free trade act – comes into effect July 1. CTV’s details here are clear, but several things are worth noting from things I have previously read. Editing down CTV’s text and then adding some details:
American farmers will have increased access to […] Canadian dairy, egg and poultry markets. This is unlikely to bring down the cost of Canadian products, but it could result in a larger variety of options on grocery store shelves.
This is a good moment to make plans to buy locally when it comes to these products. The U.S. allows a growth hormone to be used on dairy cows. The residual effects of this hormone on humans are not clear, but the effect on cows is not beneficial. It has been banned in Europe since 1990 and in Canada since 2000 – till now.
Poultry from the U.S. can be chlorinated. Chlorinated chicken is banned in Europe, and the UK plans to continue banning it even after Brexit. I cannot make out what Canada’s position is here, but obviously it’s better to eat humanely raised chicken (also eggs) even if it means you eat less of it.
My local butcher has a sign up basically saying “Eat less meat, but better quality.” With our borders forced open to a greedier regime, that’s even better advice today.
Ian 18:20 on 2020-07-01 Permalink
Having worked at a slaughterhouse, I think it’s important for meat eaters to realize that if you get your meat from a smaller butcher supplied by a smaller farmer your food will simply be fresher, will have had a shorter processing (fresher and more flavour) and have more quality control.
You shouldn’t be buying meat from the grocery store if you can avoid it in any case.
DeWolf 12:10 on 2020-07-02 Permalink
Any recommendations for good local sources of meat, Ian?
Kate 12:44 on 2020-07-02 Permalink
Lufa Farms has deals with several Quebec sources which guarantee grass‑fed beef or free‑range poultry.
I don’t eat a ton of meat, but I do go to Pascal le Boucher in Villeray, because they’re a small, local outfit and very aware of all their sources.
Faiz imam 19:51 on 2020-07-02 Permalink
Muslim grocers are always a good bet for meat. they all tend to maintain relationships with farmers to make sure religious obligations are fulfilled.
SMD 22:39 on 2020-07-02 Permalink
I highly recommend the co-op meat farm Au point du jour (www.fermepointdujour.com).
MarcG 08:14 on 2020-07-03 Permalink
St-Vincent offers tours of the farm in normal summers, that says something.
Ian 11:09 on 2020-07-03 Permalink
There are lots of co-ops as others have pointed out. In the country it is quite common for several people to go in on the price of a pig and have it custom butchered for you by a local butcher, costs a lot less but you need freezer space. In town I suggest you find a good small butcher and start asking questions. Living in Mile End I like Chez Vito a lot, Tino’s quality control is impeccable. If your tastes run more toward homemade sausage & classic German fare Boucherie Atlantique on Queen Mary is unbeatable.
DeWolf 11:49 on 2020-07-03 Permalink
Excellent, thanks everyone!