Harper Government Supports the Growth of the Tomato Industry

Ridgetown, Ontario - Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada (AAFC)

Member of Parliament Dave Van Kesteren (Chatham – Kent – Essex), on behalf of Agriculture Minister Gerry Ritz, today announced an investment of $214,682 to help the Ontario Tomato Research Institute increase yields and develop new varieties of tomatoes.

This investment from AAFC’s AgriInnovation Program under Growing Forward 2 will support research for new tomatoes that are better adapted to the Canadian growing conditions and market needs. Research is also aimed at increasing tomato yields which will help producers remain competitive and strengthen Canada’s economy.

Quick facts

• The Ontario Tomato Research Institute uses a collaborative approach to research where farmers and processors work together for the benefit of the Canadian tomato sector.
• The project is expected to help both farmers and processors gain access to new tomato varieties, creating long-term value for the tomato processing sector.
• This investment is made through the Industry-led Research and Development stream of AAFC’s AgriInnovation Program, a five-year, up to $698-million program under Growing Forward 2.

Source: AAFC