From Ontario farms to the plates of thousands of CNE visitors. This summer Ontario Pork launched an exciting new consumer marketing initiative in front of the largest concentrated consumer audience in Canada – partnering with food truck vendor Steak Barrels at the Canadian National Exhibition (CNE).
“Ontario Pork is always searching for new ways to showcase the quality and taste of locally raised pork,” said Julie Kuiack, Manager of Communications and Consumer Marketing for Ontario Pork. “This partnership allowed us the opportunity bring Ontario pork to an even broader audience at one of Canada’s most recognized and well-attended events, while sharing what makes it so special.”
“We love this partnership with Ontario Pork,” said Steak Barrels co-owner John Medina. “We know there are a lot of family farms putting in so much effort to raise high-quality pork.”
Through this partnership, Steak Barrels featured delicious Ontario-raised pork belly at two high-traffic food trucks. Steak Barrels co-owner Blanca Medina said what separates their food trucks is how they slow roast the pork in upright barrels over charcoal.
“Pork is very important in the Colombian cuisine,” said Blanca. “Our cooking delivers a unique flavour profile, and pork remains the fundamental protein for us.”
The initiative was a tremendous success, with approximately 5,000 pounds of Ontario-raised pork belly served throughout the exhibition. Steak Barrels co-owner John Media said by advertising the fact they were selling high-quality, locally raised food, customers got the opportunity to buy local and build a connection to their food.
“We are sure, 100 percent sure that the quality of Ontario pork is the best, and our customers recognize that and are willing to pay for that quality.”
This partnership comes at a particularly important time as more Canadians are actively seeking out Ontario-raised and Canadian-produced food. Blanca Medina said now more than ever it’s necessary to support local.
“This is a time when it’s so important for us to work hand-in-hand with local producers and use locally made products,” said Blanca. “By working with organizations like Ontario Pork we can achieve excellent results for the people working in our province.”
By bringing Ontario-raised pork directly to consumers at the CNE, Ontario Pork’s new consumer marketing initiative helped highlight the quality, flavour, and versatility of pork raised by Ontario farm families. It also highlighted the critical role that farmers play in maintaining a strong and sustainable food system, while encouraging consumers to make choices that support local agriculture and Canadian food production.
