Unveiling of Quebec’s 2018-2025 Biofood Policy
QPMA ready to contribute to the development of Quebec agrifood sector

Montreal, April 6, 2018 – The Quebec Produce Marketing (QPMA) welcomes the unveiling of the province’s 2018-2025 biofood policy, aimed in particular at promoting the importance of healthy products and increasing awareness and education to this end among all Quebecers, objectives that have been at the heart of the QPMA mission for over 70 years.

“Every day, our members work to meet the demands and needs of consumers looking for a healthy variety of fruits and vegetables throughout the year,” said QPMA chief executive officer Sophie Perreault. “Since our industry has been growing over the years in perfect sync with the proposed biofood policy, the QPMA is more than willing to be a leading partner in helping to achieve the government’s ambitious objectives while contributing to the continued growth of our sector.”

The sector generates significant economic benefits for Quebec. According to a recent economic study released by the QPMA, the fruit and vegetable industry represents more than 62,000 jobs and generates $4.1 billion in added value to our annual GDP. Quebec’s fruit and vegetable exports have also been growing by 15% a year since 2011.

“There is no miracle recipe. Simply put, eating more fruits and vegetables means a healthier Quebec for everyone,” Perreault said. ‘With the biofood policy released today, paired with the Government of Quebec’s health prevention policy, specifically targeting increased fruit and vegetable consumption among Quebecers by 2025, the QPMA is a natural partner.”

The goal of “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign the QPMA initially launched in 2004 is to increase awareness of the importance of fruit and vegetable consumption. “We are already well committed to supporting government objectives with our many activities and projects demonstrating that eating fruits and vegetables is an easy, accessible way to enjoy proven health benefits,” she said.

Information:    
Sophie Perreault
Chief Executive Officer, QPMA
514-777-6319 - sperreault@aqdfl.ca

 

 

Quebec City, January 8, 2018 – The “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign is proud to partner once again with the Quebec International Pee-Wee Hockey Tournament. For a 6th consecutive year, the campaign will invest in a healthy lifestyle for the young by coaching them on the benefits of a diet that’s rich in fruits and vegetables. Which means we’re adding colour to the young hockey players’ meals and snacks with a variety of fresh produce provided free of charge to the tournament organization. Luckily, the “I Love” campaign can count on our generous suppliers to care about young people’s health as much as we do.

As part of our efforts to raise awareness about healthy eating habits, we’ll give hockey players and fans a chance to test their knowledge and play the “5 Winning Teams” game that appears in the tournament program. The goal is simple: make up 5 major “teams” of fruits and vegetables – combinations from the 5 produce colour groups, each with its own special health benefits.

Nutritionist and “I Love” campaign spokesperson Julie DesGroseilliers has this message for the players: “Fruits and vegetables are a prime fuel source for athletes. They also supply water. And they’re a great source of vitamins and minerals to help you bounce back after sports activities and promote good health in general.”

At this event – a major annual attraction for hockey fans – we spotlight all 3 star players in a healthy lifestyle: proper nutrition, physical activity, and plenty of fun! We hope all the players will have an outstanding experience. Remember, put your hearts into it – out on the ice, and on your dinner plate at home as well!

About the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign

The “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign is designed by the QPMA to raise public awareness about the importance of eating fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy lifestyle. For more information, please visit ilove5to10.ca or follow us on facebook.com/jaime5a10.

 

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Information:

Maude Ménard

Communications and Events Coordinator

QPMA

514-355-4330, extension 226

mmenard@aqdfl.ca

 

Saint-Polycarpe, le 21 décembre 2017 - L'AQDFL et Canadawide offrent au Centre Action bénévole Soulanges un lot de fruits et légumes qui servira à la réalisation de paniers de Noël pour des citoyens de la région; un geste dont se réjouit la ministre déléguée à la Réadaptation, à la Protection de la jeunesse, à la Santé publique, et aux Saines habitudes de vie et députée de Soulanges, madame Lucie Charlebois.

Soutenant environ 250 familles à faible revenu de la circonscription, présentes sur 9 municipalités, le Centre d’Action bénévole Soulanges est un organisme qui aide au maintien à domicile par le service de transport médical, de visites amicales et de discussions téléphonique amicales. Il offre aussi le dépannage alimentaire et un comptoir vestimentaire. L’aide alimentaire se traduit aussi par la mise à disposition d’une cuisine collective, l’animation d’ateliers de conception de repas santé et la remise de paniers de Noël. Read more

Trois-Rivières, December 15, 2016 – Jean-Denis Girard, MNA (Trois-Rivières), and his colleague Marc H. Plante, MNA (Maskinongé), are delighted with the donation of fresh fruits and vegetables to Entraide Sainte-Catherine-de-Sienne made by the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) and Courchesne-Larose. The fresh produce received by the community organization will help in the preparation of paniers de solidarité food baskets.

Every week in Trois-Rivières, Entraide Sainte-Catherine-de-Sienne, a nonprofit organization with a warm and caring atmosphere provided by some 30 volunteers, delivers groceries to some 85 of the neediest families in the city’s west end. The baskets provide a complete and balanced food supply, which not only helps these families stay afloat but also encourages them to adopt a healthy lifestyle.

“Thanks to the valuable support from all our partners and especially today’s donation by the QPMA and Courchesne-Larose, we’re able to reach out to families in need who apply to us for help every week. I would like to sincerely thank both organizations for their generosity,” said Michel Gauthier, in charge of Entraide Ste. Catherine-de-Sienne.

“Entraide Sainte-Catherine-de-Sienne has been active in our community for over 10 years. Besides assisting those most in need, it’s helping maintain healthy eating habits with the food baskets it provides. This donation by the QPMA and Courchesne-Larose will allow residents who benefit from this fine organization’s services to eat healthy meals. It’s also a great way to raise their awareness about the importance of proper diet,” said Trois-Rivières MNA Jean-Denis Girard.

A partnership that delivers real benefits
In its efforts to encourage more consumption of fruits and vegetables in Quebec, the QPMA suggested a unique partnership plan with members of the Quebec National Assembly earlier this year, allowing local community organizations to benefit from donations of fresh produce. “Eating their minimum recommended daily servings remains a challenge for half our population. Although we’ve seen much greater availability and variety of fruits and vegetables in Quebec in recent years, actual consumption is making slower progress. This is the reason why we wanted to partner with MNAs to raise awareness and commit Quebec to an ambitious, modern vision. Eating fruits and vegetables means having a healthier Quebec. Health that’s based on eating as many delicious fruits and vegetables as people want. Talk about ‘tidings of great joy’ in the Holiday Season! We’re very happy that MNAs for Trois-Rivières and Maskinongé are taking part in this initiative. It’s a very real step toward a much healthier lifestyle,” said QPMA CEO Sophie Perreault.

ABOUT THE QPMA
Founded in 1947, the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) is a nonprofit organization that brings together members from every sector of the produce industry, working in close synergy with them and with its various industry partners. The QPMA works to create a favourable environment for the development of fruit and vegetable marketing in Quebec, plays a leadership role in promoting fruits and vegetables, and represents and defends the best interests of its members with government and the industry.

About the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign
Launched by the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) in 2004, the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign is intended to raise consumer awareness about the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy lifestyle and, as a result, to increase sales of these products for the benefit of its members. For more information, please visit jaime5a10.ca/en or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

 

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Informations:

Sophie Perreault
Chief Executive Officer
QPMA
514-777-6319
sperreault@aqdfl.ca

Marianne Méthot
Policy Advisor
Office of the MNA for Trois-Rivières Constituency
819-371-6901
mmethot@assnat.qc.ca

« Puisque les habitudes alimentaires acquises durant l’enfance influencent grandement les comportements à l’âge adulte, il est primordial d’aider les enfants à bien manger dès le plus jeune âge. Ces fruits et légumes offerts vont permettre aux enfants du camp jour de goûter à des collations santé. C’est une belle opportunité de les sensibiliser à manger plus de fruits et légumes leur faire prendre conscience que c’est important et plaisant de s’alimenter sainement. Il s’agissait pour moi de saisir ce moment pour mettre l’accent sur la santé de ces jeunes.», a souligné Carole Poirier.

Un partenariat unique et prometteur
L’acquisition de saines habitudes de vie est intrinsèquement liée à la consommation de fruits et légumes.
Dans cette volonté d’éducation et parce que les changements d’habitudes de vie se travaillent sur le long terme, l’AQDFL a récemment suggéré aux élus de l’Assemblée nationale un partenariat unique : Permettre à des organisations locales identifiées par les élus de bénéficier d’un don de fruits et légumes.

« Forts de notre expérience avec la campagne J’aime 5 à 10 portions par jour, lancée en 2004 et visant à sensibiliser les consommateurs à l’importance de la consommation de fruits et légumes dans l’adoption de saines habitudes de vie, nous souhaitions montrer que manger des fruits et légumes : c’est un plaisir simple et accessible pour tous, qui apporte de la saveur et de la couleur au quotidien, a affirmé la présidente – directrice générale, Sophie Perreault. Pour nous, les députés sont des alliés dans la promotion et l’atteinte de ces objectifs, de par le rôle qu’ils jouent au sein de leur communauté. Nous sommes heureux qu’ils aient répondu en grand nombre. Il s’agit d’un geste tangible pour un Québec en santé ! À l’image de ses dernières publicités, Mettez-y du cœur ! En collations et aux repas, il n’y pas de limite pour savourer les fruits et légumes, mais au minimum 5 à 10 portions par jour !»

Nous tenons à remercier notre membre de l’AQDFL, Hector Larivée, distributeur de fruits et légumes.

À propos de l’AQDFL
Fondée en 1947, l’Association québécoise de la distribution de fruits et légumes (AQDFL) est une organisation à but non lucratif qui regroupe des membres actifs dans toute la filière des fruits et des légumes, qui travaille en synergie avec ceux-ci ainsi qu’avec les différents partenaires de l’industrie. Elle veille à créer un environnement propice au développement de la commercialisation des fruits et légumes au Québec, joue un rôle de leader dans leur promotion, représente et défend les intérêts de ses membres auprès des différentes instances gouvernementales et auprès de l’industrie.

À propos de la campagne «J’aime 5 à 10 portions par jour»
Lancée par l’AQDFL en 2004, la campagne « J’aime 5 à 10 portions par jour » vise à sensibiliser les consommateurs à l’importance de la consommation des fruits et légumes dans l’adoption de saines habitudes de vie et par conséquent, augmenter les ventes de ces produits pour le bénéfice de ses membres. Pour information, consultez www.jaime5a10.ca et suivez-nous au facebook.com/jaime5a10 ou sur Twitter AQDFL –JAIME 5 à 10

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Informations:
Sophie Perreault
Présidente-directrice générale
AQDFL
514.777.6319
sperreault@aqdfl.ca

From the moment golf committee chairman Enrico Charest (Sobeys Québec) made the opening tee shot, players enjoyed a perfect day for quality networking and showcasing their talents in action. Golfers may have been divided into two groups playing on different courses, but they were all able to challenge themselves in the skills competition and sample a sensational spread of gourmet delights out on the links.

Once the tournament was over, guests enjoyed a lively cocktail hour before digging into a mouth-watering supper in a perfect setting for catching up on news and meeting with members and friends of the QPMA. Hosted by Richard Morency, the evening concluded with the presentation of the day’s trophies and a draw for more than 60 deluxe door prizes that made for lots of very happy winners.

The QPMA took the opportunity at the event to present a cheque for $5,000 to the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF). For 40 years the JDRF has been recognized as a world leader because of its commitment to end Type 1 diabetes (T1D), a mission that is dear to the heart of QPMA board president Stephan Schmekel (Fresh Del Monte Produce (Canada)).

We wish to thank our sponsors, partners, and – of course – the golfers for making this event a huge success. Many thanks also to the Centre de golf Le Versant for their great hospitality and the professionalism of their staff. Don’t miss our 59th Annual Tournament in July 2017. We promise it’ll be tons of fun!

About the QPMA
Founded in 1947, the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) is a non-profit organization that brings together members from every sector of the produce industry, working in close synergy with them and with its various industry partners. The QPMA works to create a favourable environment for the development of fruit and vegetable marketing in Quebec, plays a leadership role in promoting fruits and vegetables, and represents and defends the best interests of its members with government and the industry. qpma.ca

About the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign
The “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign was launched by the QPMA in 2004. Its purpose is to raise consumer awareness about the importance of eating fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy lifestyle and, as a result, to increase sales of these products for the benefit of its members. For more information, please visit ilove5to10.ca or follow us at facebook.com/jaime5a10.

CLICK HERE to see photos from this memorable event.

Photos available on request

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For more information:
Anne-Émilie Thibault
Communications and Member Relations Coordinator
QPMA
514-355-4330, ext. 224
aethibault@aqdfl.ca

New faces for a new year ahead
The annual general meeting of the QPMA membership was an occasion for the board of directors* to appoint Dino Farrese (Bellemont Powell) as 2nd vice-president, while Nancy Goudreau (Canneberges Québec) was elected to a seat on the board as the director representing producers, packers, processors, and shippers. At the same time, Sammy Cacciatore (Sun Grape Marketing) joined the ranks of QPMA governors. The AGM was also an opportunity for Stephan Schmekel (Fresh Del Monte Produce (Canada)) to thank the board members for their active involvement over the past twelve months. “Thank you all most sincerely, because each of you – or rather, each of us – shares the responsibility of building a future for the industry, insofar as our skills and talents allow, by facilitating the marketing and boosting the consumption of fruits and vegetables in Quebec,” he told his audience. QPMA CEO Sophie Perreault also looked back with pride over the association’s activities during the past year. “A major first for us was the cocktail reception we organized at the National Assembly. This was a real success, with a record turnout. During the event, we unveiled the Mettez-y du cœur! / Put your heart into it! campaign and offered MNAs a hands-on connection via donations of fruits and vegetables to charitable organizations in their own ridings. Those donations and their associated educational activities have already begun. It’s delivering excellent media visibility and generating outreach opportunities all over Quebec,” she said.

* A complete list of board members appears at the end of this news release.

Guest speakers produce major life lessons
Conventioneers had the opportunity to attend a conference given by Nicolas Duvernois, founder and president of PUR Vodka, the first ultra-premium vodka produced entirely in Quebec, and the top medal winner among all vodkas made in Canada. This born entrepreneur gave a stirring talk about the unusual career that’s made his product a worldwide success. In his own words, “You’ve got a better chance of succeeding if you keep on going than if you stop.” A lesson worth learning! In the next conference, titled “Live long…and Stay Healthy,” Dr. Martin Juneau, cardiologist, clinician, and researcher at the Montreal Heart Institute, brought his audience up to date on the latest trends and issues in the fields of nutrition and fitness, stressing prevention and personal responsibility before medication. His recommendations were clear, practical and scientifically valid…advice worth taking to heart.

Later, at the Industry Brunch, nutritionist and consultant Julie DesGroseilliers announced the latest results of the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign, on which she’s served as official spokesperson since day one. Julie also highlighted the many different projects submitted by participants and winners of the 11th annual “I Love” contest. Last but not least, the courageous Sébastien Sasseville, who’s climbed Mount Everest, completed six Iron Man challenges, won the mythic Sahara Desert race, and walked across Canada, despite the stresses of Type 1 diabetes, gave a powerful inspiring talk on the remarkable similarities between major life challenges in business and achievements in sport. A story like no other we’ve ever heard!

Adventures and thrills
Friday morning was time for special activities, and this year’s three options had something for everyone. Those who felt like getting active joined the “Chateau du Cirque Adrenalin Challenge,” where they enjoyed a unique experience, including a chance to try out a real circus trapeze and other activities. Foodies had the opportunity to take part in a cooking competition at La Guide Culinaire, working with star chef Jonathan Grenier. Others looking for a chance to relax and dream a little could sail the St. Lawrence aboard the private yacht Navark, including a stunning panoramic tour of the Boucherville islands.

Every evening, guests had a special way to wrap up their day. The convention’s opening night featured privileged access to the new Observatory on the recently redesigned 46th floor of Place Ville Marie. It was a great way to network with friends and colleagues while enjoying the #MTLGO exhibit, along with breathtaking views of the city on the highest open-air terrace in Montreal. On Friday evening, guests were transported to the Oktoberfest, with dinner in an unmistakably festive atmosphere, imbued with old Bavarian traditions: Prost! A performance by GoGoGroove turned on the energy with oldies from the 1980s for folks to party on the dance floor into the wee hours.

The closing banquet on Saturday evening was hosted by Alexandra Diaz as master of ceremonies. On this occasion, Michel Levac (Bellemont Powell) was declared 2016 Pillar of the Quebec Industry for his personal qualities and professional contributions, throughout his career, to the growth of the produce industry. Next, Roland Lafont (Vergers Saint-Paul) proudly accepted the QPMA board presidency for 2016-17.  His special theme for the year ahead will be “Feeding the world, an everyday challenge.” In his acceptance speech, Lafont also had an important message for consumers: “Eating right is about much more than simply what you spend. It’s about an investment in every sense of the word. Yes, it’s about what you pay for every item, every week, but it’s also about long-term benefits. Do people want to live better in old age? Then they have to invest starting now, not only in their retirement fund, but in a healthy diet.” The evening’s entertainment was the show Orchestra! featuring the Beatles’ greatest hits…timeless classics played by 16 musicians, including string and brass sections.

Make way for the next generation!
A first at this year’s convention was a Speed Meeting. Industry mentors were able to share their ideas, life experience, and valued advice with the younger generation, and forge ties with an up-and-coming generation that’s full of energy and eager to learn from those with experience. “Words can hardly express how lucky I feel to have the honour and privilege of meeting so many outstanding people with such great experience gathered here in one room at this first annual Speed Meeting event, which was nothing less than a terrific success,” said one of the mentored participants, Jean-François Giroux (Fresh Del Monte Produce (Canada)).

Making a perfect sequel was the fifth annual round of the QPMA “Cultivating the Next Generation” program, with the selection of an intern who will have the opportunity to gain a year’s experience working on activities inside the association. The fourth QPMA intern and first woman to be part of the program, Julie Lefort (Serres Lefort), delivered a vibrant and emotionally stirring personal account of her experience in the QPMA. She then passed the torch to the new recruit selected by the committee, Simon-Pierre Murdock (Morille Québec).

Members in the spotlight
The 11th annual “I Love” Contest had an excellent turnout, with 216 entries. This year’s lucky winners, chosen in a random draw are (by category):

Email Signatures: Tony Bono (Chenail Import-Export)
Websites and Social Media: Chenail Import-Export
Projects with Major Impact (New Project in 2016): Les Vergers Cataphard
Projects with Major Impact (Repeat): Canadawide

Last, but by no means least, for a fifth consecutive year, the QPMA gave members an opportunity to introduce their latest items in our New Products Showcase. A growing number of companies have taken advantage of this unique opportunity – 29 this year. Some of our exhibitors, eager to compete for originality, have created very attractive windows and displays. New this year: visitors to the convention could vote for their favourite product or service. The Sweetheart Award was given jointly to Vergers Paul Jodoin and Patasol, both having received the same number of votes. A completed list of companies and their products is available on request.

THANK YOU TO ALL PARTICIPANTS AND SPONSORS!
We hope we’ll see you at the 70th edition of the QPMA Convention
August 17 to August 19, 2017 at Hilton Lac Leamy in Gatineau!

About the QPMA
Founded in 1947, The Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) is a nonprofit organization that brings together members from every sector of the produce industry, working in close synergy with them and with its various industry partners. The QPMA works to create a favourable environment for the development of fruit and vegetable marketing in Quebec, plays a leadership role in promoting fruits and vegetables, and represents and defends the best interests of its members to government and industry. aqdfl.ca/en

About the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign
Launched by the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) in 2004, the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign is intended to raise consumer awareness about the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy lifestyle and, as a result, to increase sales of these products for the benefit of its members. For more information, please visit jaime5a10.ca/en or follow us on Facebook.

For photos of the event please, CLICK HERE.
For a list of sponsors of the event, please CLICK HERE.
Photos of the event are available on request.

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Information:
Sophie Perreault
Chief Executive Officer - QPMA
Tel: 514-355-4330 ext. 222
sperreault@aqdfl.ca

*Board of Directors for 2016-2017

Executive Committee

Roland Lafont, VERGERS SAINT-PAUL – Board President
Francis Bérubé, SOBEYS QUEBEC – 1st Vice-President
Dino Farrese, BELLEMONT POWELL – 2nd Vice-President
Stephan Schmekel, FRESH DEL MONTE PRODUCE (CANADA) – Past President
Sophie Perreault, QPMA – Chief Executive Officer

Board of Directors

Alexandre Monette, COURCHESNE LAROSE
Antonio Bono, CHENAIL IMPORT-EXPORT
Anthony Fantin, VEG PRO INTERNATIONAL
Bernard Côté, J.B. LAVERDURE
Chris Sarantis, CANADAWIDE
Daniel Terrault, HYDROSERRE MIRABEL
Enrico Charest, SOBEYS QUEBEC
Marc-André Chenail, FERMES DU SOLEIL
Nancy Goudreau, CANNEBERGES QUÉBEC
Nick Méti, EMBALLAGES MARCAN
Pascal Guérin, JAG, LES JARDINS A. GUÉRIN ET FILS
Pascal Primiano, METRO
Patrice Alain, METRO
Peter Snyder Jr., S&S FORWARDING
Yan Branco, PROVIGO/LOBLAW

Sherbrooke, August 29, 2016 – Saint-François MNA Guy Hardy welcomes the Quebec Produce Marketing Association’s donation of fruits and vegetables to the non-profit Sercovie organization in his riding. Sercovie has been hard at work for more than 40 years promoting the development of healthy lifestyle habits for those over 50 years of age. The QPMA’s contribution includes fruits and vegetables for the more than 500 clients who get their meals delivered to their homes thanks to the Sercovie Meals on Wheels program.
“Sercovie is very active in our community. In addition to adapting its services to the needs of our retirees, they help our seniors maintain healthy lifestyles by organizing and providing many activities. The QPMA’s donation will allow Sercovie to offer even more nutritious food to those they serve and more effectively educate them on the importance of healthy eating,” MNA Guy Hardy said.

“Every year since 1973, we’ve been there helping seniors and those with loss of autonomy, thanks to the generosity of our volunteers and donors. Healthy eating for those 50 years of age and older can sometimes be a challenge. It’s a collective task we must work at continually. The support we’ve received today from our MNA Guy Hardy and the QPMA is a great help and encourages us to continue our work with the Sherbrooke community,” said Sercovie executive director Rémi Demers.

A fruitful partnership
Eating fruits and vegetables is intrinsically linked to developing healthy lifestyle habits. “A diet that is sufficient in fruits and vegetables is your best insurance policy for healthy aging,” says Julie DesGroseilliers, nutritionist and spokesperson for the I love 5 to 10 servings a day campaign. To ensure the growth in consumption of fruits and vegetables in Quebec, the QPMA has come up with a unique way of working with Members of the National Assembly to help local organizations in their ridings to benefit from donations of fruits and vegetables.

The I love 5 to 10 servings a day campaign was launched in 2004 to increase awareness on the importance of eating fruits and vegetables. “We want to show everyone that eating fruits and vegetables is a simple pleasure, accessible to all, and good for everyone’s health,” said QPMA chief executive officer Sophie Perreault. “We’re very pleased that the MNA for Saint-François supports this initiative. It’s a real, concrete gesture that promotes healthy lifestyles for all Quebecers.”

 

ABOUT THE QPMA
Founded in 1947, the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) is a non-profit organization that brings together members from every sector of the produce industry, working in close synergy with them and with its various industry partners. The QPMA, whose mission is to create a favourable environment for the development of fruit and vegetable marketing in Quebec, plays a leadership role in promoting fruits and vegetables, and represents and defends the best interests of its members with government and industry.

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Information:

Sophie Perreault
Chief Executive Officer, QPMA
514-777-6319
sperreault@aqdfl.ca

With these words, Quebec Produce Marketing Association CEO Sophie Perrault expressed her pleasure on learning the details of the Quebec government’s new Health and Prevention Policy made public on Sunday by the acting minister of rehabilitation, youth protection, public health, and healthy lifestyles, Lucie Charlebois.

“A healthy diet that’s rich in fruits and vegetables can help prevent any number of health and social problems. A balanced diet is an investment that pays real dividends…perhaps the most valuable investment you can make,” said QPMA board president Roland Lafont. “So the QPMA is glad that the government is investing in prevention by committing itself to taking action for healthy eating.”

“With our educational materials, including the food guides, Mandoline kits, serving cards, and other resources, with our experience in the ‘I love 5 to 10 servings a day’ campaign, the QPMA already has significant knowledge to help facilitate many activities and initiatives from the get-go. We’ll be right there on the starting line, just as soon as details of the action plan to implement the policy are known. Any and all approaches to promote healthy lifestyles, especially among young children, are a smart choice for creating a healthy society. And because we believe this so strongly, we’ll be able to contribute toward achieving the government’s goals. In short, the QPMA is here to help,” said Sophie Perreault.

ABOUT THE QPMA

Founded in 1947, the QPMA is a non-profit organization that brings together members from every sector of the produce industry, working in close synergy with them and our industry partners. Our mission is to create a favourable environment for the development of fruit and vegetable marketing in Quebec, to play a leadership role in promoting fruits and vegetables, and to represent and defend the best interests of our members with government and industry. qpma.ca

ABOUT THE “I LOVE 5 TO 10 SERVINGS A DAY” CAMPAIGN
Launched by the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) in 2004, the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign was designed to raise consumer awareness about the importance of eating fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy lifestyle. For more information, please visit ilove5to10.ca or follow us on Facebook.

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Source:  Sophie Perreault
Chief Executive Officer, QPMA
514-355-4330
sperreault@aqdfl.ca

Business and pleasure with a special flavour
Almost 530 guests were welcomed by QPMA board president, Roland Lafont (Verger Saint-Paul), convention chair René Saint-Louis (Metro), Oyster Party chair Patrice Alain (Metro) as well as the executive director of the association, Sophie Perreault. Guests enjoyed their fill of three varieties of tasty and succulent oysters, as well as an impressive variety of delicious entrées featured in a gorgeous, gargantuan and typically Italian buffet! Games in the casino added to the fun, with fresh opportunities for contacts in friendly competition around the tables.

Financial report released
Earlier in the day, the QPMA held a special general meeting where Carole St-Pierre of the accounting firm Bourassa Boyer presented the financial results to the membership. The SGM also adopted two resolutions intended to ensure that all sectors be duly represented by members with seats on the board of directors. Stephan Schmekel (Fresh Del Monte Produce/Canada), past QPMA board president (2015-2016), sincerely thanked the executive committee for their major involvement during this past year in particular, under the ever-watchful eyes of interim directors Marie Gosselin and Robert Beauregard, while the CEO was on leave of absence. “We made sure to invest money conscientiously for the maximum concrete benefit to our member activities in business – that is, by pursuing our mission to promote and defend their best interests,” he said. Building the future “is done on the basis of sound, responsible, and disciplined management of our finances.” CEO Sophie Perreault also took the opportunity at the meeting to present an activities report and the numerous projects ongoing or completed by the association. If you would like to get the results and highlights of the financial statements, please contact Marie de Tarlé Salmon at mdetarlesalmon@aqdfl.ca or call 514-355-4330, extension 221.

The QPMA board of directors also took the opportunity to welcome new QPMA members present at the event:

CARTEL MARKETING               
ENERGY FRESH EXPRESS
FORINO PRODUCE INC.
GENDRON COMMUNICATION
MARCON
ORANGELINE FARMS
POTAGER MONT-ROUGE

Many thanks to all participants and our generous sponsors:

CANADAWIDE
R. PINSONNEAULT ET FILS
CARTEL MARKETING
LOCATION BROSSARD
COURCHESNE LAROSE

If you have any comment about the Oyster Party, please contact Maude Ménard-Labrecque by e-mail at mmenard@aqdfl.ca.

To see the photos of this memorable evening please CLICK HERE.

See you on NOVEMBER 3, 2017 for the 32nd edition of the QPMA Oyster Party!

La Sarre, December 13, 2016 – François Gendron, MNA (Abitibi-Ouest), is delighted with the donation of fresh fruits and vegetables by the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) and IGA Boyer to the Maison St-André in Abitibi-Ouest.

As a nonprofit community organization supporting some 165 low-income households in the riding, Maison St-André is also a social economy enterprise that actively supports those who benefit from its services in adopting and maintaining healthier lifestyles. This is accomplished through food support that includes hot meals, emergency assistance, food baskets (panniers de solidarité), a food counter, and kitchens for creative cooking.

“Maison St-André is very active in our community. In addition to helping those most in need, it organizes and provides numerous activities to help them keep up a healthy lifestyle. This donation by the QPMA and IGA will allow residents who benefit from this fine organization’s services to eat healthy meals. It’s also a great way to raise their awareness about the importance of proper diet,” said MNA François Gendron in a message delivered on his behalf by political attaché Marie-Josée Céleste.

For several years now, IGA Boyer has supported Maison St-André on a significant scale, averaging $37,000 a year over the past 5 years. “We’re proud that we can support Maison St-André once again. This collaboration makes a perfect combination with our ‘Joy of Eating Better’ movement, which will allow many families to obtain food assistance. We believe in this, and we want to make a real difference in our community,” said Sylvain Boyer, owner of the IGA Boyer store.

A partnership that delivers real benefits
In its efforts to encourage consumption of fruits and vegetables in Quebec, the QPMA suggested a unique partnership plan with members of the Quebec National Assembly earlier this year, allowing local organizations to benefit from donations of fresh produce.

“Eating their minimum recommended daily servings remains a challenge for half our population. Although we’ve seen much greater availability and variety of fruits and vegetables in Quebec in recent years, actual consumption is making slower progress. This is the reason why we wanted to partner with MNAs to raise awareness and commit Quebec to an ambitious, modern vision. Eating fruits and vegetables means having a healthier Quebec. Health that’s based on eating as many delicious fruits and vegetables as people want. Talk about ‘tidings of great joy’ in the Holiday Season! We’re very happy that the MNA for Abitibi-Ouest is taking part in this initiative. It’s a very real step toward a much healthier lifestyle,” said QPMA CEO Sophie Perreault.

ABOUT THE QPMA
Founded in 1947, the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) is a nonprofit organization that brings together members from every sector of the produce industry, working in close synergy with them and with its various industry partners. The QPMA works to create a favourable environment for the development of fruit and vegetable marketing in Quebec, plays a leadership role in promoting fruits and vegetables, and represents and defends the best interests of its members with government and the industry.Fondée en 1947, l’Association québécoise de la distribution de fruits et légumes (AQDFL) est une organisation à but non lucratif regroupant des membres actifs dans toute la filière des fruits et des légumes. L’OBNL travaille en synergie avec ceux-ci ainsi qu’avec les différents partenaires de l’industrie. Elle veille à créer un environnement propice au développement de la commercialisation des fruits et légumes au Québec, elle joue un rôle de leader dans leur promotion, et elle représente et défend les intérêts de ses membres auprès des différentes instances gouvernementales et auprès de l’industrie.

About the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign
Launched by the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) in 2004, the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign is intended to raise consumer awareness about the importance of eating fresh fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy lifestyle and, as a result, to increase sales of these products for the benefit of its members. For more information, please visit jaime5a10.ca/en or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

 

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Informations:

Sophie Perreault
Chief Executive Officer
QPMA
514-777-6319
sperreault@aqdfl.ca

Montreal, February 14, 2017 – The Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA), in partnership with the Chilean Fresh Fruit Association (CFFA), is pleased to present Coup de coeur pour les fruits du Chili, a new food guide featuring blueberries, grapes, plums, peaches, and nectarines…flavour-filled gems from the farms and orchards of Chile.

Julie DesGroseilliers, nutritionist and spokesperson for the “I Love” campaign, introduces this exciting range of products from Chile, our leading imported source of fruit from the Southern Hemisphere. Because it’s summer in Chile when it’s winter in Quebec, many products from Chile appear in our grocery stores during the coldest months of the year. “It’s a real blessing for us,” says Julie. “Let’s make the most of it and put lots of variety, colour, and great eating on our daily menus.” The Coup de coeur food guide for Chile makes it easy for everyone discover the benefits of these fruits, including handy tips on how to preserve and store them…and exclusive recipes as well.

Susanne Bertolas, Eastern Canada Merchandiser at Chilean Fresh Fruit Association, says she’s thrilled to see the new guide published. “ It’s summer in Chile and there is nothing like the taste of fresh fruit.  We believe eating in season is essential to a balanced healthy diet all year long.  We are thrilled with this partnership to provide the Quebec market place with tools in this catalogue to inspire and educate retailers, schools, dieticians and health service representatives. ”

You can download the guide by clicking here and any of our other tools free from the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign website (jaime5a10.ca/en/tool). You can also order copies of your selections to help you eat better, one serving at a time!

About the QPMA
The QPMA is a nonprofit organization representing all sectors associated with the marketing of fresh produce. For over ten years, its “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign has worked to raise awareness among Quebecers about the importance of eating fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy lifestyle  For more information, please visit the ilove5to10.ca or follow us on Facebook. 

About the Chilean Fresh Fruit Association
The Chilean Fresh Fruit Association is a non-profit private entity representing Chile’s fresh fruit growers and exportersTogether, they represent 96% of all fresh fruit exported from Chile. fruitsfromchile.com

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For information:
Maude Ménard-Labrecque
Communications and Events Coordinator
QPMA
514.355.4330, ext. 226
mmenard@aqdfl.ca

Back on TV…with a heartfelt message
For a second year, “Put your heart into it” will be the campaign signature, conveyed on four different visuals. In the coming weeks, audiences can see 15-second spots, as well as integrated banner commercials during shows on the Radio-Canada main channel, as well as on various specialty channels like RDI, Explora, and ARTV. Viewers will discover or rediscover the colourful hearts of the campaign by following the popular tune “Les p’tits coeurs” by Manuel Brault.

At the same time, the campaign will run online, appearing on various sites, including lapresse.ca, tou.tv, ricardo.ca, and telequebec.tv, and on social media through Facebook ads and videos. And by teaming up with Les Éditions Pratico-Pratique, the campaign will enjoy another window for extra visibility.

Healthy eating – yours to enjoy
The campaign has used a positive, encouraging approach to eating 5 to 10 servings of fruits and vegetables a day since 2004. “Nature’s jewels” are a source of pleasure because they add flavour and colour to meals, especially at those times of year when the growing season yields an incredible abundance of fresh fruits and veggies in local markets.

The campaign has also developed and circulated an assortment of simple, practical tips to help Quebecers get interested in eating more fruits and vegetables. Audiences can find these on the “I Love” website – oodles of information about fruits and vegetables, their special benefits, and what a “serving” means, plus food guides, adaptable information tools, and favourite recipes by produce industry professionals. The campaign also has a lively Facebook page that’s packed with tantalizing food facts and practical advice. Last but not least, the campaign is a colourful attraction at food fairs and trade shows, and is on the scene with several major partners, all designed to help Quebecers eat better.

About the QPMA
Founded in 1947, the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) is a nonprofit organization that brings together members from every sector of the produce industry, working in close synergy with them and with its various industry partners. The QPMA works to create a favourable environment for the development of fruit and vegetable marketing in Quebec, plays a leadership role in promoting fruits and vegetables, and represents and defends the best interests of its members with government and industry. qpma.ca

Visuals and vidoes available on request.

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Information:
Maude Ménard-Labrecque
Communications and Events Coordinator
QPMA
514-355-4330, extension 226
mmenard@aqdfl.ca

 

The 2017 I Love campaign
Guests were welcomed by QPMA board president Roland Lafont (Verger St-Paul), event chairman Marc-André Chenail (Fermes du soleil), and QPMA interim CEO Johanne Desrochers. During the evening, guests enjoyed a sneak preview of new initiatives for the “I love 5 to 10 servings a day” campaign, which will run with the “Put your heart into it” signature for a second consecutive year. The 2017 campaign returns to TV with more fresh flavour than ever, including 15-second spots and integrated ad banners on the Radio-Canada main channel and specialty channels like ARTV, RDI, and Explora from April 10 to May 14. At the same time, the ad banners gain visibility online at high-traffic websites like Ricardo.ca, tou.tv, lapresse.ca, and social media as well, through Facebook ads and videos.

The Spring Cocktail helped raise over $20,000 for the “I Love” campaign. Since its original launch in 2004, the campaign has developed and distributed a wide assortment of simple, practical tips to get Quebecers interested in eating more fruits and vegetables. Audiences can find these at the “I Love” website  –  bushels of information about fruits and veggies, their special benefits, and what a “serving” means, plus food guides, adaptable information tools, and favourite recipes by produce industry professionals. The campaign also has a lively Facebook page that’s packed with tantalizing food facts and practical advice for a supportive community of more than 19,000 fans.

For over 10 years, the “I Love” campaign has carried its message about the importance of eating fruits and vegetables, including the first generic promotional campaign for fruits and vegetables in Quebec, and also managed to get the entire industry on side. This has been a major team effort, and we sincerely thank our members and our valued partners for their trust and support, which are really the basis for the “I Love” campaign’s success.

Many thanks to all our guests, and to our valued sponsors: Farm Credit Canada, Prince Logistic Services, Mas & Fils Jardiniers, Robinson Fresh, Agripak 2M, S&S Forwarding, Chenail Import Export, Fermes du Soleil, Maritime Paper Products, Flexipak industries, Jardins A. Guérin and Kilo Systeme.

About the QPMA
Founded in 1947, the Quebec Produce Marketing Association (QPMA) is a nonprofit organization that brings together members from every sector of the produce industry, working in close synergy with them and with its various industry partners. The QPMA works to create a favourable environment for the development of fruit and vegetable marketing in Quebec, plays a leadership role in promoting fruits and vegetables, and represents and defends the best interests of its members with government and industry.

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Information and photos:
Maude Ménard-Labrecque
Communications and Events Coordinator
QPMA
514-355-4330, extension 226
mmenard@aqdfl.ca