written by Nicole Jacobs, Market Manager
Market operates Thursdays, 3-7pm,
INDOORS, at 875 Dufferin St
*full vendor list here

Yes indeed, friends – if we pull together, we really can make a bitter thing, sweet. You may have guessed that I’m speaking of the recent(ish) “political chaos” that we’re now facing, (as Canadians.) Yes – specifically, the harmful U.S. tariffs, that are (although currently delayed), still looming.
Oyster mushrooms from Noki Farms – grown locally, in Guelph, Ontario.

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Onions, from Nith Valley Organics.

And while this “situation” is very stressful (for many of us), it’s also a great opportunity for us to pull together. If ever there was a time to support local farmers’ markets, now is it! I did “my part” just this morning, by consuming some delicious maple syrup from Forbes Wild Foods, (our feature photo this week.) Yes, I made the ultimate Canadian sacrifice, by pouring some of the (“very dark”) on a warm batch of freshly-baked granola. A “true-north hero” – yes, so I’ve been told.

The incredible organic bounty from Plan B Organics.

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Fresh, local lettuce, from Nith Valley Organics.

The OCO, (Organic Council of Ontario), has also weighed in, (on the many benefits of supporting local), with the following:
“While tariffs pose challenges, they also spotlight the importance of supporting local agriculture. And while this extension provides temporary relief, it also presents a unique opportunity for our community to strengthen local connections, and promote Ontario and Canadian organic products. This is our chance to show the resilience of the Canadian organic sector, and the power of our community.”
This “situation” I feel, is also a valuable reminder of how important it is, to support and protect our precious community spaces. Thanks for your weekly commitment to that.

Chris, of Bitter Better (left), talking to market shoppers about his incredible products, at last week’s Lunar New Year market. They’ll return to the market on February 13th. And of course, in supporting local, we obviously want you to prioritize the Dufferin GroveMarket. (No surprise there.

) However, the reality is that (generally), not all of our grocery and/or household needs, can be found at local farmers’ markets. So if/when, you do find yourself at “the grocery store”, here is a helpful guide, to help identify Canadian brands.
Still looking for more ways (to contribute?) Well OCO further, had these recommendations:

Encourage friends, family, and your community to support local organic businesses
Advocate for local procurement policies in your community, schools, and institutions
Develop (if you’re a business owner), relationships with Canadian distributors and retailers to reduce dependency on U.S. customers

Amazing! We got this!

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Hot and delicious Caribbean food, every week, from Estelle’s Caribbean Cuisine.

New Vendor Alert!
Full vendor list, (for February 6th.)
Get ready to welcome “From Lex’s Pantry” to the market this week!

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From business owner, Alexa Clark:
“From Lex’s Pantry crafts small-batch, artisanal spice blends, that make delicious easy! Founded by professional food critic, Alexa “Lex” Clark. Our carefully curated seasonings are all gluten-free, vegan, nut-free, and preservative-free. Whether you’re making a quick meal or something gourmet, our blends bring vibrant, globally-inspired flavour effortlessly.“

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Fisherfolk’s many varieties of sustainable fish and seafood. All of which would probably be even tastier, with a dash of seasoning from “From Lex’s Pantry”.
Full vendor list here.

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House of Tigernut’s beverages and granola – yum!

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Kalmplex Snax’s, dried fruit (with a hint of cayenne) – so many flavours!

Cookies Can Fix Anything!

Some of you are already aware that (despite their amazing cookies), one of our vendors recently received some unfortunate hate mail. This was just for displaying the Pride flag – (as they always have.) Yes, Johnson Family Bakery was painfully reminded that not everyone values inclusivity (in the same way.)

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Business owner, Chuck Johnson, (pictured here, at his shop in Leslieville), described the “feedback” as:
“Essentially a long and very poorly-written diatribe of anti-trans hate and anti-gay hate, and general bigotry.” Clearly that person had not tried one of Johnson’s cookies.
But Chuck quickly turned things around with his brilliant response! Essentially, a complete pushback, against hate. Go Chuck, go!