As cross-border trade gets tangled in political red tape, New Brunswick’s agricultural sector remains steady, thanks to its strong regional markets and diverse crop production. Rather than worrying about unpredictable international policies, now is the time to recognize and celebrate the abundance of high-quality fruits and vegetables grown right here in New Brunswick.
Homegrown & Hardy
While national conversations around agriculture tend to fixate on Ontario’s sprawling farmlands, Quebec’s apple orchards, or British Columbia’s vineyards, New Brunswick has quietly been holding its own. The maritime province is a key player in Canada’s fruit and vegetable production, supplying the country with blueberries, cranberries, potatoes, and a growing selection of other locally grown crops. With international trade becoming more unpredictable, there’s never been a better time to put local food first.
New Brunswick’s Bounty: More Than Just Blueberries
Sure, New Brunswick is famous for its wild blueberries, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. It’s fertile land produces cranberries, apples, potatoes, carrots, and cabbages—staples that could easily replace imports on Canadian tables. In 2024, Canada’s overall fruit and vegetable production grew by 3.3%, with Eastern Canada—New Brunswick included—seeing strong yields. Cranberries, in particular, surged in production, proving that Atlantic Canadian growers can stand in the national market. Unlike Ontario, where large-scale vegetable farms depend heavily on export markets affected by tariffs, New Brunswick’s farmers primarily cater to local and national consumers, shielding them from some of the harsher trade impacts.
The Economics of Eating Local
Prioritizing local purchases isn’t just a matter of preference—it’s a practical decision. Spending grocery dollars within the province supports local farmers, strengthens the economy, and ensures that New Brunswick’s food industry remains resilient in the face of external pressures. Choosing locally grown food helps maintain a stable agricultural sector that provides jobs, fosters sustainability, and reduces reliance on costly imports. Here’s how you can make a difference:
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Shop at farmers’ markets – Meet the growers, learn about your food, and support small farms directly.
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Check grocery store labels – Opt for New Brunswick-grown produce whenever possible.
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Preserve local produce – Freezing, canning, and dehydrating fruits and veggies means enjoying New Brunswick-grown food year-round.
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Get creative in the kitchen – Experiment with New Brunswick-grown ingredients in new and exciting ways to make the most of seasonal produce.
A Future of Food Sovereignty
With global supply chains in flux and trade policies in constant negotiation, food sovereignty—the ability to produce and access food locally—is more crucial than ever. By choosing New Brunswick-grown fruits and vegetables, consumers not only get fresher, healthier options but also play a direct role in strengthening the province’s agricultural future. The next time you’re browsing the produce aisle, ask yourself: Why buy imported when the best fruits and vegetables are growing right in your own backyard?
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