When I first moved to Winnipeg, I was slightly disappointed at the access I had to organic produce and properly raised meat. That is, until I found the right resources.
There are many local farmers that deliver to the city on a regular basis, farmer’s markets that bring local produce within your grasp and stores that offer great products. The following are a list of a few of my favorite places for seasonal and year round quality food.
McDonald Farms is located near Cartwright, MB. They deliver grass-fed beef, pork and lamb to the city every 4-6 weeks. They are a family owned and operated farm with an online food ordering system. They are very easy to work with and offer a variety of food packages to accommodate any family or individual’s needs.
Vic’s Fruit Market is a family owned produce store located on Pembina Hwy near Jubilee. They don’t just sell fruit! They also offer vegetables, meat, coffee and other essential food items. Although not everything is local or organic, their variety is par none. They also grow their own produce at their greenhouse in East St. Paul.
Crampton’s Market is now open year round! This is your one stop shop for locally raised meats, Canadian grown product and other items such as honey, fresh baked breads and canned vegetables. They even offer CSA shares (weekly boxes of pre paid, in season vegetable shares). They will be re locating on Roblin in Headingley for the 2019 season.
Harvest Moon Local Food Initiative is a local food initiative run by volunteers. They aid local farmers in getting their products to the public through a monthly ordering service. You can purchase meats, vegetables, eggs, honey, soaps, wild rice and more! They have several drop of locations throughout the city and throw events all year round.
Frigs Natural Meats & More provides the public with gluten, soy, dairy and MSG free meat products from locally raised animals and promises no anti-biotics or growth hormones in their products. Whether you are looking for lamb, bison, bacon, fish, chicken, turkey or any other animal—they probably have it! On Wednesdays, they offer all if their patrons 10% off. They are located in West St. Paul, but I promise you, it’s worth the drive.
Harborside Farms is family owned and operated by the Carver family. They are located in Pilot Mound, MB. They raise grass fed cattle, Mule Foot and Berkshire pigs as well as chickens and turkeys. They run their own meat shop and sell quality products to anyone who visits them, but also deliver to the city regularly.
Farmers Markets are all over the city. By July, they should all be in full swing. Cross your fingers for spring to come soon so we can all start buying fresh, local produce. Don't forget to buy in bulk so you can freeze, can and pickle for the winter.
Do you have a favorite place to buy local food? Let me know below!