George Webster will be one of thousands pledging to eat only Atlantic on September 2.
Prince Edward Islanders will have a chance to show their provincial and regional pride for the great food produced in Atlantic Canada during this year’s Eat Atlantic Challenge on September 2, says Agriculture Minister George Webster.
“Eating local and Atlantic foods is the best choice for so many reasons,” said Mr. Webster. “It’s good for your health. It’s also the right choice for the local economy and the environment. When you choose Atlantic products, you ensure that more of your food dollar goes to the men and women who make a living producing the foods we eat. That keeps money and jobs in our region.”
Mr. Webster wants to help everyone understand how easy it is to choose Atlantic first. That’s why he is pleased to announce his participation in the Eat Atlantic Challenge, joining thousands of Atlantic Canadians who are pledging to eat Atlantic for the day on September 2. He is joined by the ministers in the other three provinces, all having made the pledge to eat only Atlantic foods for that day.
The minister invites residents of Prince Edward Island to visit the Eat Atlantic Challenge website at www.eatatlantic.ca to offer their commitment. The home page shows a provincial leaderboard, which keeps a running tally of pledges, broken down by province, as well as a map of Atlantic Canada that shows where participants are located. The website also features links to an Eat Atlantic Challenge Facebook site, Twitter feeds, videos submitted by Atlantic Canadians, and information on Let’s Grow, where more than 25,000 Atlantic children were given the chance to grow their own bean seeds at school and home.
Those who pledge to take part in the challenge automatically qualify for a chance to win a gift basket of Atlantic foods, valued at $250, donated by the region’s Co-op food stores. Co-op launched the first Eat Atlantic Challenge in 2008.
“Choosing local and Atlantic first is a simple way we all can improve life here in the province,” said Mr. Webster. “I certainly enjoy eating Atlantic products every day, and on September 2 I’m looking forward to celebrating this with other food lovers in our province and region.”
Prince Edward Island won the challenge in 2009 with the largest per capita participation, and Mr. Webster said he is confident the title can be retained in 2010.