Food producers invited to learn the ins and outs of getting their products to market at local training event

The City of Kingston and the Township of South Frontenac are pleased to host a full-day food production training session, “The A to Z of Getting Your Food Products to Market." 
 

People looking to get into the food production business or expand their existing food operation to sell locally to restaurants, smaller food stores or online are invited to this comprehensive training event at Portsmouth Olympic Harbour on Friday, April 12. 
 

The session will feature presentations from key stakeholders including the Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs (OMAFRA), KFLA Public Health, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and local businesses eager to share their expertise. 
 

“Last year, we held two food production events and they were very well received,” says Tracey Snow, Manager, Rural Economic & Community Development. “We’ve heard from many community members that this training is of great benefit to those who dream of starting or scaling a food-based business. It also highlights the importance of local food in our community and gives participants the opportunity to learn about the policies, tools and resources available to them.”  
 

The training session is open to anyone, whether you’re brand new to food production or an established farmer or business owner looking to scale up their business. The event will take participants through all the steps of starting a food business such as renting and using a commercial kitchen, food safety requirements and getting products on the shelves. 
 

Kingston has three commercial kitchens available for rent, with another one located in South Frontenac. Anyone looking to produce and sell food products can access these state-of-the-art facilities. 
 

“Starting a business can feel daunting, but we want participants to know there is a growing market for local food in the region, backed by a strong local network that really supports this kind of entrepreneurship,” adds Snow.  
 

Those who are interested in registering for the A to Z of Getting Your Food Products to Market can do so online. Space is limited. Lunch will be provided and there is free parking on site.