Raw milk cheeses scrutinized in U.S. Thursday, June 6, 2013 The federal government in the United States is rethinking a 60-year-old law that allows cheeses made with raw milk to be sold to consumers as long as they have aged for at least 60 days. Aging is supposed to kill dangerous bacteria that cheese carries, but a story in Scienceline, published by New York University's science health and environmental department, cites a University of Vermont study that found gouda and cheddar cheese aged for 100 days contained E. coli. Last fall, 22 people in 13 states were reported infected with listeria, allegedly after eating imported Italian raw milk cheeses which were subsequently recalled. Even with an extended aging time, it's not likely that raw milk cheeses will be made 100 per cent bacteria (and risk) free. The story says the Food and Drug Administration began its re-evaluation of the 60-day rule in 2009 and won't comment until its study is complete. BF The new superfoods: Big market potential but challenging to grow U.S. report downplays pesticides as colony collapse cause
Canada Packers Posts Strong Volume Growth and Profitability in First Year as Standalone Company Tuesday, March 17, 2026 Canada Packers Inc., recently split off from Maple Leaf Foods, reported its financial results earlier this month for the fiscal year ended December 27, 2025, highlighting increased hog volumes, steady sales growth and disciplined financial execution. In the fourth quarter of 2025,... Read this article online
Canada’s Real Seasons (According to Farmers Who Actually Live Here) Monday, March 16, 2026 According to a chart that’s been making the rounds on social media, courtesy of The Weather Network—the Canadian calendar has officially been updated. Apparently, we no longer live by the simple rhythm of winter, spring, summer, and fall. Instead, we now rotate through such crowd... Read this article online
Ontario Equine Industry Drives Rural Economy Monday, March 16, 2026 A new economic study has revealed the major contribution of Ontario’s equine agricultural sector to the province’s economy and rural communities. The Ontario Equine Agricultural Economic Impact Study Report provides the first comprehensive evaluation of the industry since 2010 and offers... Read this article online
Julia Montgomery Named OVC Dean Monday, March 16, 2026 The University of Guelph has announced the appointment of Dr. Julia Montgomery as the new dean of the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC).She will begin her five-year leadership term on June 15, 2026.The appointment marks an important step for one of Canada’s most respected veterinary... Read this article online
Canada Seeks Agriculture Champions for Hall of Fame Sunday, March 15, 2026 The Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame Association is inviting nominations for individuals who have made lasting and meaningful contributions to the agriculture and food industry in Canada. The organization is seeking candidates for the 2026 class of inductees, with nominations accepted... Read this article online