Toronto – The Ontario Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs is investing $5.2 million through the Local Food Fund to help consumers purchase more local food and beverages.

The Local Food Fund will support a total of 14 innovative local food projects, involving a wide range of companies across different sectors of the industry in Ontario.

One of those businesses is Simcoe-based VG Meats Ltd., which will receive up to $948,025 to purchase new beef processing equipment and packaging, and to help it bring Ontario beef to Longo’s grocery stores. Other recipients include Elginburg-based Limestone Organic Creamery Ltd., Saugeen Specialty Grains in Desboro, and Hamilton’s The Gala Bakery Inc.

The fund is part of a broader food strategy to increase consumer awareness of and access to local food.