Celebrating the faces of Canadian farmers at Downtown Diner

Early yesterday morning, Canadian poultry and egg farmers hosted their renowned pop-up Downtown Diner on Sparks Street in Ottawa. With this year’s event serving up sumptuous wraps, frittatas and nibbles, the main focus was placed squarely on celebrating the hard work of Canada’s farming families, their commitment to sustainable food production and the system of supply management, which gives Canadians year-round access to fresh, local, high-quality food.

Throughout the event, farmers representing Egg Farmers of Canada, Chicken Farmers of Canada, Turkey Farmers of Canada and Canadian Hatching Egg Producers highlighted the importance of made-in-Canada food, while speaking to key government stakeholders and the Ottawa public about farming in Canada.

“As a farmer, I’m proud to be able to produce high-quality food sustainably in order to feed people in my community and to be able to give back in a meaningful way,” said Anneke Donkers-Stickney, Ontario egg farmer. “It’s great to have the opportunity to meet people from all walks of life and talk to them about where their food comes from and how family farms, like mine, support people and businesses in my immediate community and across the country.”

“Downtown Diner is an exciting way to put a face to Canadian farmers while showcasing why Canadian agriculture is so important for our collective well-being,” said Brian Bilkes, Chair of Canadian Hatching Egg Producers. “Our food system is strong and will remain strong thanks to the support given to the next generation of farmers and the communities we serve.”

New this year, Downtown Diner’s menu featured three winning recipes from the 2022 Parliamentarian Recipe contest, which saw MPs and Senators from across Canada submit their favourite dish, featuring either Canadian chicken, turkey or eggs or a combination of all three. Bringing the event full circle, Canadian poultry and egg farmers also announced a contribution of $20,000 to support food banks across Canada.

“I am proud to represent the riding of Perth—Wellington, home to the highest number of chicken farmers in Canada, and I am very pleased to acknowledge the important role Canada’s poultry and egg producers play in tackling the critical issue of food insecurity through their support of local food banks across Canada,” said M.P. John Nater, one of three 2022 Parliamentarian Recipe Contest winners.