The Canadian Definition of Local
In May 2013, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) announced a new definition of the word “local,” establishing that “local” could refer to anything sourced within a province or within 50 km of provincial borders.
Our Definition of Local
In order to more accurately reflect the values of our members and our True Local vendors, the Kootenay Co-op decided we needed a more precise definition of local than the one established by the CFIA. As a result, we created our True Local program which defines local as a 160km (100 mile) radius from our store. We feel this definition more accurately reflects the spirit of what “local” truly means. It is based upon the geography of our local bioregion, known as the Kootenays. It is defined by physical and environmental features, including watershed boundaries and terrain characteristics.
Our True Local program works to promote the products of more than 150 farmers, bakers and makers, who operate within a 160km (100 mile) radius of our store. The program helps us to bring our vision and mission to life by investing in the social, environmental and economic sustainability of our local community.
Now that’s what we call Local!
Get to know the people who craft the products you love!
We invite you to spend a little time getting to know your local farmers and suppliers and enjoying their True Local products.
Check out our True Local supplier directory to read up on your favourite farmer or maker, or pop by the store to meet them in person! Our amazing suppliers are often at the store offering samples of their products — come on down to meet some these creative and empowered entrepreneurs!
keep an eye out for our true local logo while you shop.
This logo lets you know which products on our shelves are True Local, so you can rest assured that you’re purchasing from a truly local, Kootenay business.
Learn more
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