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Gordon Food Service’s Commitment.
Gordon Food Service is committed to British Columbia. As part of our Best of
BC philosophy, Gordon Food Service is proud to support BC’s communities
with this easily recognizable symbol of fresh, local products.
Being Best of BC means you can be sure the product you are about to eat
has been grown or raised in BC, or from BC ingredients.
The green leaf.
When this icon is present on the Gordon® Food Service ordering system,
GFS Connect, you can be sure the product you’re purchasing is BC Grown.
This flagging is updated as items go in and out of season or experience
seasonal gaps.
Why Support Local?
1. Because food tastes better when it’s picked ripe and fresh.
2. Because food is more nutritious the sooner it’s eaten after harvest.
3. To reduce your impact on the environment.
4. To support local farmers and their farms.
5. To give back to the local economy.
OUR VENDORS
This map of British Columbia is marked with the farms, pastures and
harvest locations of the local produce, protein and dairy we offer. We
purchase direct from these farms, co-ops and brokers and work to build
long standing partnership with them.
CLICK HERE TO GO TO THE ONLINE MAP
PROTEIN
PRODUCE
DAIRY
GORDON FOOD SERVICE PRESENTS
FROM FARM TO FORK 5TH EDITION.
This guide features 26 of our local vendors who we work with to provide B.C. Grown Product.
We purchase direct from these farms, co-ops and brokers and work to build long standing
partnership with them.
BC PROTEIN
01
63 ACRES PREMIUM BC BEEF
ALBION FARMS AND FISHERIES LTD.
HERTEL MEATS LTD.
JOHNSTON’S
ROSSDOWN FARMS AND NATURAL FOODS
BC PRODUCE
07
ALL SEASON MUSHROOMS INC.
BCFRESH VEGETABLES INC.
BC TREE FRUITS
BELLMANN SPECIALTY PRODUCE
CENTURY FARMS
EATMORE SPROUTS & GREENS LTD.
EVERGREEN HERBS LTD
MISTY MOUNTAIN SPECIALTIES
STAR PRODUCE
UNITED FLOWER HOLDINGS
VAN EEKELEN ENTERPRISES LTD.
WINDSET FARMS
BC DAIRY
19
GOLDEN VALLEY FOOD LTD.
HAPPY DAYS DAIRIES LTD.
LITTLE QUALICUM CHEESEWORKS
MOONSTRUCK ORGANIC CHEESE INC.
NATURAL PASTURES CHEESE COMPANY
OLYMPIC DAIRY
SALT SPRING ISLAND CHEESE COMPANY
VANDERPOLS EGG LTD.
THE VILLAGE CHEESE COMPANY
BC SEASONAL CHARTS
29
PROTEIN
63 ACRES PREMIUM BC BEEF
8966 NOWELL STREET, CHILLIWACK, BC
MISSION
“Bringing the best BC beef to BC dining tables.”
ESTABLISHED
63 Acres started in 2014 to create a local brand of
premium beef naturally raised without any added
hormones or steroids. Their cattle is grass fed and grain
finished for superior marbling, texture and taste and
comes from carefully selected family owned farms in
BC’s southern interior. They focus strictly on quality,
consistently delivering delicious cuts of beef raised
ethically, naturally and locally.
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
FARM OPERATIONS
2
• Angus-cross cattle are raised on small family-owned
ranches in BC’s southern interior where the climate
is perfect for raising beef – low humidity, lots of
sunshine and plenty of grass, barley, hay and corn to
feed on.
Local suppliers include:
• Miane Creek Livestock in Armstrong, owned by Mike
and Diane Nikolaisen
• Ted and Pauline Curtis & sons 3rd generation farm in
the Hulcar Valley outside of Armstrong
• The Burke and Bremmer family farms in Enderby
FARM MARKETS
• Premium AAA beef is BC born, raised and fed
naturally, treated humanely and processed locally.
• AAA beef is available in standard cuts such as
ribeyes, striploins, flats, insides and grinds.
• Humane treatment of animals: allowed to roam
and graze free on a grass diet without any animal
by-products, or chemical additives or growth
promotants like steroids, finished on local barley,
corn and hay for 150 days, which improves texture,
taste and tenderness.
• Potential to provide some off cuts such as shoulder
tenders, skirt meat, flat irons and others.
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• BC Food Processors Association
• BC Association of Abattoirs
ALBION FARMS AND FISHERIES LTD.
1900 NO 6 RD, RICHMOND, BC
Danny Ransom • President
“To make it easy for customers to succeed with seafood
by being a world class leader in the seafood industry,
measured by the health and success of our business,
employees and customers.”
FARM MARKETS
•
Clams
•
Sea Urchin
•
Crab
•
Tuna
•
Halibut
•
Mussels
•
Herring
•
Scallops
VISION
•
Lingcod
•
Caviar
“To create one step between seafood harvesters and
seafood customers, adding business value for both.”
•
Octopus
•
Cod
•
Oysters
•
Rockfish
ESTABLISHED
•
Spot Prawn
•
Sablefish
Founded by Dave T. Athey in March of 1963 out of
the back of his pick-up truck, Albion have grown into
a business that employs 300 people in four different
locations and have a customer base of over 2,000.
In 2005 they became a member of the Gordon Food
Service (GFS) group of companies with coast to coast
distribution power.
•
Salmon of all
varieties, wild
and farmed
•
Sole
•
Trout
OPERATIONS
• Extensive High Tech Food Processing Operation
Local suppliers include:
•
Sardines
AWARDS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Marine Stewardship Council Chain of Custody
(COC since 2002)
• Aquaculture Stewardship Council Chain of Custody
• Founding Supply partner of Ocean Wise program
• Stellar Bay Shellfish in Bowser
(pictured above, Keith Reid)
• Formal partnership with SeaChoice established
in 2009
• Kuterra Salmon in Port McNeill
• First BAP certified Seafood Distributor in Canada
• Lois Lake Steelhead in Powell River
• Sea Pact Founding Member
FROM FARM TO FORK |
MISSION
3
HERTEL MEATS LTD.
8750 BLAND ROAD, PORT ALBERNI, BC
Thomas Hertel • Owner
MISSION
“To produce quality, naturally smoked, Hams, Bacons
and Fresh Sausages from locally grown BC Pork.”
• Specialize in all naturally smoked Bacons,
Hams, Cottage Rolls, Hocks, etc.
• No Nitrite, No Sodium Phosphate or MSG
added bacon
ESTABLISHED
From humble beginnings as a country butcher shop
built in 1963 by Tom Hertel (pictured above, with Helena
Hertel) and run by his father Paul, Hertel Meats Ltd. now
employs a 4th generation of family, as well as dozens of
dedicated local employees.
OPERATIONS
• Best practices are to produce products for the
ever-conscious consumer, with a clean label.
• They take pride in sourcing ingredients
as locally as possible and in their
recycling and composting program.
FARM MARKETS
• Fresh, premium quality meat products
for health conscious, and lactose and
gluten intolerant consumers
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• Gluten free / Lactose free / MSG free fresh sausages
4
SUSTAINABILITY
• Recycling, composting, alternative energy
sourcing, UV water system, pest control & solar
pre-heated water
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• B.C. Small Scale Food Processors Association
• HACCP Food Safety Program
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• Certificate of Appreciation – For Dedication and
Service to the – Celiac & Gluten-Free Community
JOHNSTON’S
5828 PROMONTORY RD, CHILLIWACK, BC
Mat Ball • Owner & President
“From one man with a vision, Johnston’s has continued
to grow, persevere and adapt to change while
maintaining traditional values of family, community,
quality and service.”
• Certification for a nationally recognized
and approved Animal Care
• Certified Livestock Transport ticket
Local suppliers include:
• The Soth Family at Bacon Hill Farms
ESTABLISHED
• The Vanderlinde Family at Saar Bank Farms
Established in 1937 by Mr. Carmen Johnston, Johnston’s
began with custom slaughtering services and employed
only one full-time and one part-time employee. Over
seventy-five years later, they are still in Chilliwack
offering custom processing services, but now employ
and support over 120 families in the Fraser Valley. They
continue to grow, persevere and adapt to change while
maintaining traditional values of family, community,
quality and service.
• The Goertzen Family at Sundance
Farms (pictured above)
FARM OPERATIONS
All producers are required to have Level 3 Certification
under the Production Protocol Certification Standard:
• Meet the Canadian Pork Council’s CQA
Standards (Canadian Quality Assurance –
a HACCP based food safety system)
• Implement and practice Enhanced
Bio-Security Standards
• Complete an accredited Nutrient
Management Program
• Complete an accredited Medication
Management Program
• The Hoogeven Family at Verard Farms
FARMER MARKETS
• Fresh, high quality pork products year-round
straight from farms in the Fraser Valley
• Anything from tip to tail is processed then delivered
next day
SUSTAINABILITY
• Bio-diesel trucks
• Plant focus to reduce hydro usage
• Each farm has environmental and sustainability
programs in place, unique to each farm
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• BC Association of Abattoirs
• Small Scale Food Processor Association
FROM FARM TO FORK |
FARM MISSION
5
ROSSDOWN FARMS AND NATURAL FOODS
2325 BRADNER ROAD, ABBOTSFORD, BC
Dion Wiebe • Owner
FARM MISSION
“Working with integrity and striving for quality
and excellence by providing superior service.”
FARM VISION
“To give people a trusted, local source for healthy, highquality poultry products. As Western Canada’s premier
poultry farm, we hatch, feed, grow and process organic,
specialty and value-added poultry products that
are available to consumers through our family of
trusted brands.”
ESTABLISHED
Dan Wiebe and his family started Rossdown Farms Ltd.
in 1968. Now a 4th generation family farming operation,
in 2007 Dan retired, and current owner Dion, Dan’s son
took over the family business as President. Today, their
poultry farms have expanded from Langley to the BC
Interior and have grown to employ approximately
250 employees.
• Raise quality poultry with animal care as a priority. Independent auditors verify standards and practices
• Fully certified organic facilities to raise
organic poultry
FARM MARKETS
• Farm-to-plate chicken and turkey
SUSTAINABILITY
• Sustainable practices are implemented in every
stage of the fully integrated process
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• CFIA
• Fraser Valley Organic Producers Association
• BC Chicken Marketing Board
• BC Muslim Association
• Canadian Poultry and Egg Processing Council
• BC Turkey Farmers of Canada
FARM OPERATIONS
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• A farm to plate operation, the only fully vertically
integrated poultry operation in Canada
6
• Breed the eggs, hatch the chicks, produce the feed
and grow the poultry and cut or process the meat
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• 2014 Business Excellence Award
• Agricultural and Agri-Business
Excellence, sponsored by TD Bank
PRODUCE
ALL SEASONS MUSHROOMS INC.
3392 224TH STREET, LANGLEY, BC
The Moscone Brothers, Frank & Pat Moscone
FARM MISSION
“Our core purpose is “Cultivating Mushrooms for Healthy
Eating” in an environment that cultivates “people, planet,
and profit” and our timeless core values of “Excellence,
Service , Integrity, and Innovation” as a collective part of
our business strategy so as to achieve our Vision “To be
the customer’s choice as the premier mushroom grower
and marketer in Canada.”
ESTABLISHED
All Seasons Mushrooms was founded in 1997 by Frank
Moscone. The company has two growing operations in
B.C. and one in Alberta providing year round, weekly
production capacity in excess of 400,000 lbs. There are
a total of approximately 280 employed company-wide.
FARM OPERATIONS
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• Environmental Farm Plan
• Waste waters in composting operations are
100% recycled
• Convert straw and dry poultry manure, once
considered waste products, into growing substrate
• State of the art energy efficient facilities
• Recycle spent mushroom substrate, after mushrooms are
harvested, recycled back into soil amendment markets
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Active member of Canadian Mushroom Growers
Association (dba “Mushroom Canada”)
• BC and Alberta Produce Marketing Association
• BC Restaurant and Food Service Association
• The entire operation is vertically integrated from
substrate preparation through to distribution
• Canadian Organic Council
• All facilities are ‘certified organic’ under rules of the
Canadian Food Inspection Agency
• Certified Organic Certificates
• All facilities have achieved “Certificate of Recognition”
in safety—to date, the only mushroom company in
Western Canada with such distinguished designation
8
SUSTAINABILITY
• State of the art facilities permit us to deliver
mushrooms from ‘bed-to-table’ in 28 days
FARM MARKETS
• A full breadth of “certified organic” White, Crimini,
and Portabella mushrooms
• Certificate of Recognition in Safety
• SQF Certified
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• City of Langley “Small Business of the Year Award”
• Vendor of the Year award by Thrifty Foods/Sobeys
• A Gordon Food Service VIP award
BCFRESH VEGETABLES INC.
4363 KING STREET, DELTA, BC
Murray Driediger • President & CEO
“To be the premier provider of locally-grown vegetables
found on plates across Western Canada.”
FARM MARKETS
Potatoes, Carrots, Cabbage, Beets, Squash, Parsnips,
Rutabagas, Turnips, Brussels Sprouts, Shallots.
ESTABLISHED
SUSTAINABILITY
Established in 1992 in Delta, BCfresh is 100% growerowned and operated by farm families. Many of these
family farms have been in operation for up to six
generations and have been established in Delta since the
1890’s. Today BCfresh vegetables are grown on more
than 60 family farms sprinkled across BC.
• Crop Rotation and Integrated Pest Management
FARM OPERATIONS
• Eliminating waxed coated cartons
• 100% of farms are Canada GAP accredited
• Recycling and Water Management
• Field Laser Leveling - maximize irrigation water
• Low voltage lighting in the warehouse
• FSC Certified shipping containers
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Good Warehouse Practices audited and accredited
• BC Potato & Vegetable Growers Association
• No genetically modified materials, seeds or
seed stock
• BC Vegetable Marketing Commission (BCVMC)
Local suppliers include:
• The Guichon Family, Felix Farms in Delta
(Pictured above, Paul Guichon)
• Brent Kelly Farms, Delta
• Rod Swenson Farms, Delta
• The Heppell & Shouten Families, Heppell’s Potato
Corp, Cloverdale
• Burr Farms, Delta
• The Sihota Families, Canadian Farms, Cloverdale
• Bates Farms, Delta
• Lundstrum Farms, Delta
• BC Produce Marketing Association (BCPMA)
• Canadian Produce Marketing Association (CPMA)
• Produce Marketing Association (PMA)
• Canadian Horticultural Council
• Delta Chamber of Commerce
• Delta Farmland and Wildlife Trust
• Get Local BC Org
• CPMA Fresh Health Award Winner for 2015
FROM FARM TO FORK |
FARM MISSION
9
BC TREE FRUITS LTD.
1473 WATER STREET, KELOWNA, BC
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
MISSION
“A BC Tree Fruits Sticker means flavourful food grown
close to home using natural and sustainable methods.”
• Okanagan Tree Fruit Cooperative
ESTABLISHED
• Growers Supply Company Limited
Created in 1936 to promote BC Tree Fruits.
• BC Fruit Growers’ Association (BCFGA)
• BC Tree Fruits Limited
• Okanagan Plant Improvement Corporation
FARM OPERATIONS
• Part of the BC Tree Fruits Cooperative, owned by
over 500 local grower families. They nurture the
orchards to create the best produce possible.
• Provide expertize in promoting, packaging and
transporting the BC Tree Fruits brand. This includes
assistance with sales, marketing, accounting,
technology, shipping and regulation compliance.
FARM MARKETS
• Apples
• Peach
• Pears
• Nectarine
• Cherries
• Italian plums
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• Apricot
10
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• Okanagan Tree Fruit Cooperative
• Growers Supply Company Limited
• BC Fruit Growers’ Association (BCFGA)
• Okanagan Plant Improvement Corporation
BELLMANN SPECIALTY PRODUCE
4990 N GRANDVIEW FLATS, ARMSTRONG, BC
Brad & Jen Bellmann
FARM MISSION
FARM MARKETS
“To supply high quality and unique produce with a focus
on heritage and specialty vegetables.”
They specialize in heritage and unique produce
offerings for their area. They exclusively wholesale their
BC Asparagus through Gordon Food Service! Other
unique items they have are: Rainbow Carrots, Mixed
Baby Summer Squash, Thumbelina Carrots, Cherry
Heirloom Tomatoes and Easter Egg Radishes.
ESTABLISHED
Bellmann Specialty Produce started in May 2005 by
Brad, a Red Seal Chef and Jen who has extensive front
of house hospitality experience. With a passion for
great food and quality ingredients this was a perfect fit.
With their background in culinary they know what their
customers are looking for - consistent quality, high yield
products. The farm is 33 acres with 32 in production.
In high season the farm employees approx 8 crew
members and in the winter cold storage/processing 2
employees. They strive to showcase the best of what
Armstrong has to offer seasonally.
FARM OPERATIONS
SUSTAINABILITY
• Compost to build soil and improve soil health
• Crop rotation is practiced to break any pest
or disease cycles and help combat nutrient
deficiencies
• Mechanical weed control is used in many areas to
avoid the use of chemicals
• Drip systems are used to help ease soil erosion and
conserve water
• 100% family owned and operated
• Located in Grandview Flats of Spallumcheen
in Armstrong
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Farm Food Safety Program
• On a ‘micro-climate’ that produces
high temperatures
FROM FARM TO FORK |
• Soil is sandy loarn excellent for almost any growing
11
EATMORE SPROUTS & GREENS LTD.
2604 GRIEVE ROAD, COURTENAY, BC
Glenn & Carmen Wakeling • Husband, Wife & Family
FARM MISSION
“To produce a quality & fresh product with a deep,
long term commitment to organic production and
healthy eating.”
ESTABLISHED
Established in 1975, family run business by founders/
owners Glenn and Carmen Wakeling (pictured above).
They have 45 employees, some who have been with
Eatmore for over 10 years. Eatmore provide fresh, locally
grown, organic sprouts year-round in the Comox Valley
and beyond for a happier, healthier planet.
They are committed to organic food production and
they are enthusiastic about local organic farming.
FARM OPERATIONS
• Irrigation water from deep natural aquifer –no
chlorine or chemicals
• Certified Organic Farm producing a variety of
sprouts and greens on 3.75 acres
• Indoor growing facility and greenhouse buildings
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• Produce over 8000 pounds of sprouts and greens
weekly, year-round
12
FARM MARKETS
• SPROUTS! Mainly
• Alfalfa Sprouts
• Sunflower Sprouts
• Mixed Bean Sprouts
SUSTAINABILITY
• Solar energy evaluation and support of installation
• 48 solar panels
• Bullfrog wind power: we buy their power from a
company that feeds the grid with wind powered
hydro
• Wood Gasification heating: This system is very
clean as it burns almost all its own gases, and is
considered carbon neutral
• Processing waste water heat extraction
• Thermal mass heat storage: heat is introduced from
our wood gasifier during winter months
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Pacific Agricultural Certification Society
• Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point (HACCP)
• Primus GFS
• Certified Organic by Pacific Agricultural
Certification Society (PACS#16-084) in accordance
with the Certified Organic Associations of British
Columbia (COABC)Growing certified organic
sprouts also means they are GMO Free
EVERGREEN HERBS LTD.
3727-184TH STREET, SURREY, BC
Brar Brothers • Ron & TJ Brar
FARM MISSION
• Baby and medium vegetables
“To have a ‘never-say-no’ partnership with customers.”
• Edible flowers
ESTABLISHED
Evergreen Herbs began as a traditional family farm
growing onions, carrots and lettuce. In 1996 the two
Brar brothers, Ron and TJ, set out to diversify. Their
fresh ideas and innovative approach to the business
saw Evergreen Herbs transformed into a leader of
outstanding quality herbs and vegetables in the
market today.
FARM OPERATIONS
100 acre farm with 318000 square feet of greenhouse
space. Employees range from 80 - 100 throughout the
year. The farm is certified organic & HACCP. Business
began unassumingly in the family garage. They use
semi-organic practices to produce of the healthiest
crops in the business . Crops start in environmentally
controlled greenhouse setting. Highly advanced
packaging & labeling facility.
• Other specialty items
SUSTAINABILITY
• New irrigation water purification system:
disinfection of water using UV penetration
- destroy a minimum of 99.99% of harmful
micro-organisms, including E.coli
• Use over 90% recyclable & environmentally friendly
materials in own packaging. Recycle over 80% of all
packaging materials that come in to the plant
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Canadian Produce Marketing Association
• BC Produce Marketing Association
• Certified Organic Association of BC (COABC)
• Fraser Valley Organic Producers Association
(FVOPA)
FARM MARKETS
• Culinary and specialty herbs
• Gourmet lettuces
FROM FARM TO FORK |
• Salad blends
13
MISTY MOUNTAIN SPECIALTIES
130-13900 MAYCREST WAY, RICHMOND, BC
David Lee Kwen • President
FARM MISSION
“To produce and source the most comprehensive
selection of top quality mushroom products and
exceptional specialty foods for professional chefs,
mushroom connoisseur as well as general consumers.”
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Primus GFS
• Kosher Check
• Canadian Produce Marketing Association
• CHRH Food Processing HR Council
ESTABLISHED
David Lee Kwen established Misty Mountain
Specialties in 1997 to feed his passion for fungi. He
influenced the market at a time when white button
mushrooms were the only fungi to be found in
restaurants and store shelves. David, with a belief
in sustainable, healthy, and tasty food, changed the
mushroom scene by introducing oyster mushrooms
to Canadian chefs. He was also the first to introduce
European-influenced crimini and portabella.
FARM MARKETS
• BC Food Processors Association
• Association of Chinese Canada Entrepreneurs
• Community Involvement
• Richmond Family Place
• Richmond Caring Companies
• Chi Heng Foundation Canada
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• 2010 - BC export Awards Top 25
• Specialty items like wild fiddle head greens, wild
berries & sea asparagus
• 2011 - Top 100 Food & Beverage Processors
• Promotes and supports sustainable
agricultural and economic growth
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• Fraser Valley Organic Producers Association
• Wild and domestic, fresh or dried mushrooms
SUSTAINABILITY
14
• Fruit and Vegetable Dispute Resolution Corporation
• 2011 - Business of the Year, Richmond Chamber Of Commerce
• 2012 - Best International Award Association
of Chinese Canada Entrepreneurs
STAR PRODUCE
7580 LOWLAND DRIVE, BURNABY, BC
FARM MISSION
“To be the most innovative team in produce with an
unwavering commitment to value and taste.”
ESTABLISHED
1989
FARM OPERATIONS
• 34,000 sq ft, nine coolers with
four temperature zones
• Facilities are Safe Quality Food (SQF) certified
• Global Food Safety Initiative (GFSI) certified
FARM MARKETS
• BC Markets: apples, corn, berries and
concord grapes
SUSTAINABILITY
• Plastic and cardboard recycling
• PET plastics
• Low profile containers for efficiencies
in packing and shipping
• Composting all organic matter
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Follow HACCP guidelines and conduct third
party audits annually in each facility
• Canadian Produce Marketing Association
• Lot traceability recall procedures in place
• United Fresh Produce Association
• Tsunami Wash – 99.9% reduction
in e-coli/salmonella
• The Dispute Resolution Corporation
• Maintains Good Agricultural Practices
(GAP’s) and Good Manufacturing Practices
(GMP’s) records on file for each grower
• The North American Trade Task Force
• Produce Marketing Association
• The Horticultural Value Chain Roundtable
FROM FARM TO FORK |
• SQF is an international standard of food safety
15
UNITED FLOWER HOLDINGS
4085 MARINE WAY, BURNABY, BC
Owned by the members of the UFG Co-operative Assn. • CEO Bob Pringle
FARM MISSION
“To provide one-stop access to the best of BC-grown
plants and flowers.”
• They have created a live and online auction
in which several hundred buyers access from
across Canada and the Pacific Northwest.
Local suppliers include:
ESTABLISHED
• United flower holdings was established in 1963
by six founding grower members.
• Membership has grown to 80+ BC Flower Growers.
• Collectively, their members employ more than
5000 workers, and hold more than 10 million
square feet of glass greenhouse space.
• Most member/growers are located
in the Fraser Valley.
• They are a ‘dutch style’ auction, modeled after the
prestigious flower auctions of the Netherlands.
• UFG Co-Operative association is the largest flower
auction in North America and the second largest in
the world.
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
FARM OPERATIONS
16
• They are a grower owned co-operative whose
primary function is to provide an auction three
days per week. Members bring their cut flowers
and potted plants to the auction market where
they can be purchased by florists, wholesalers
and other businesses. They act as the industry
association and provide a number of services
to our grower members including leasing of
buckets, wagons, and other equipment.
• Hollandia Greenhouses in Pitt Meadows
• Onos Greenhouses in Rosedale
• Quik Farms in Chilliwack
FARM MARKETS
• Year-round cut BC flowers
• Seasonal field grown cuts
• Holiday selections: Poinsettias, Christmas Trees
• Gift items: Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day
SUSTAINABILITY
• Bucket-recycling program
• Cardboard/plastic materials recycling
• Bio-control and non-chemical practices to control
pests or disease
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• BC Agricultural Council
• Flowers Canada
• Canadian Ornamental Horticultural Alliance
• Energy and Environmental Committee
VAN EEKELEN ENTERPRISES LTD.
38900 NO 4, RR #4, ABBOTSFORD, BC
Peter & Ria van Eekelen • Husband, Wife & Family
FARM MISSION
“Daily fresh picked witloof, year round!”
ESTABLISHED
Ria van Eekelen, coming from a long line of farming
families but educated as home-economic teacher,
started with 1 Ha. (2.5 acres) field crop in 1979 in Pitt
Meadows and forced this root crop later in the year
in-doors. The growing was difficult in Pitt Meadows as
there was no room for crop rotation and the soil was
poor for root crops. In 1981 Van Eekelen Enterprises
purchased land in Sumas Prairie, Abbotsford. Located
between 2 majestic mountain ranges which create a fine
microclimate, sandy soils that proved to be excellent for
the crops, and an abundance of irrigation water, VEE has
made this place their permanent home.
FARM OPERATIONS
• Modern Farming
• Staying up to date with current and
future technologies
• Two stage farming process takes two years, and
requires soils with the right condition, substantial
field machinery, indoor equipment, both mechanical
and computer control, and grower skills
FARM MARKETS
• White and Red Belgian Endives, also know as
Witloof or Chicory
SUSTAINABILITY
• Crop rotation, field planning and weed-free lands
• Preventing soil-and-wind erosion
• Clean waterways and ditch maintenance
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Environmental Farm Plan
• Canada GAP Food Safety for Fruits and Vegetables
• Eat BC
• Abbotsford Soil Conservation Association (ASCA)
FROM FARM TO FORK |
• Healthy working environment for all employees
17
WINDSET FARMS
3660 41B STREET, DELTA, BC
John & Steven Newell • Brothers & Founders
FARM MISSION
“To deliver fresh, beautiful produce to consumers,
using state-of-the-art technology, responsible growing
practices and a gentle hand. Feeding people the freshest
and most flavourful produce possible.”
ESTABLISHED
Windset Farms began in Abbotsford as a 4 acre bell
pepper farm. Brothers and founders John and Steven
Newell began this family run farm by planting, growing,
picking and packing – since then, they have expanded
the company to over 710 acres of greenhouse facilities.
They are now one of the largest growers and marketers
of greenhouse produce in North America. All products
are non-GMO, delicious, clean and sustainable.
FARM OPERATIONS
• Products are grown sustainably and safely in
controlled, hydroponic greenhouses
• Non-GMO verified
• Integrated Pest Management system: natural
method of controlling pests, whereby they release
predator “good” bugs, like ladybugs, into crops to
get the freeloading “bad” bugs
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
Local suppliers include:
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• Fable Farms in Pitt Meadows
FARM MARKETS
• Tomatoes
• Lettuces
• Peppers
• Eggplants
• Cucumbers
• Endives
SUSTAINABILITY
• Thermal Screens to increase heat retention at night,
resulting in a 40% savings on heating costs and energy use
• Carbon Dioxide to enhance the natural process of
photosynthesis to maximize plant production and taste
• Water Recirculation for our high percentage of
water reuse in our greenhouse
• Green Waste Composting to lower overall
carbon footprint
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• BCPMA
• CPMA
• BCGGA (BC Greenhouse Growers Association)
• CanadaGAP
AWARDS
2014 - World’s Best Tomato Grower Award
DAIRY
GOLDEN VALLEY FOODS LTD.
3841 VANDERPOL COURT, ABBOTSFORD, BC
FARM MISSION
“Good Eggs for Good Health!”
ESTABLISHED
Started by Mr. Peter Funk in 1950, Golden Valley is
the largest grading station and wholesaler of shell
and processed eggs in the British Columbia market.
During the company’s nearly 60 year history, they
have strengthened their standing as a leading British
Columbia egg marketer through a combination
of acquisitions, investments, alliances, equipment
modernization, product development and dedication
to providing the highest quality supply of eggs and
egg products.
FARM OPERATIONS
• Hens are housed in clean, well-ventilated buildings
with controlled climate and feeding systems and
are provided a constant supply of clean water and a
balanced, nutritious diet.
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• Eggs are collected twice daily, placed in sanitized
plastic flats, and stored in a cooler room at 11-12°C
(52-54°F).
20
• Because Golden Valley markets BC FRESH EGGS,
you can depend they have reached your distributors
shelf within seven days after being laid.
• They have grown their cage free offerings
by nearly 50% in the last 3 years. Their
cage free eggs are certified humane.
• Today, ownership of Golden Valley Foods is jointly
shared by Fresh Start Food (2006) Corp., a local
business owned by B.C. egg producers and L.H.
Gray & Son Limited. L.H. Gray & Son Limited,
a leader in the Canadian egg production and
processing market, provides Golden Valley Foods
with access to sales, marketing/promotion,
research and product development resources
that allow it to stay at the forefront of the British
Columbia egg industry.
FARM MARKETS
• White
• Brown
• Omega-3
• Free range
• Organic free range
• Free Run Omega-3
• Free Run
• Liquid egg white products
HAPPY DAYS DAIRIES LTD.
691 SALMON RIVER ROAD, SALMON ARM, BC
Donat Koller • President & Founder
“To produce premium quality, 100% Canadian, Goat
and Organic cow dairy products with the utmost care
and attention given to farmers, animals, customers and
business partners.”
ESTABLISHED
Happy Days Dairies was founded in 1993 by Donat Koller
(pictured above) and his family. Raised on a small family
farm in rural Switzerland, Donat knew from a young age
that he wanted to farm. Donat is an Agriculture College
and Cheesemaking College graduate, has farmed in
Australia and Switzerland, and worked in several Swiss
cheese plants. He immigrated to Canada with his wife in
July of 1993, and they leased a small vacant dairy farm
in Salmon Arm, BC and decided that Goat Dairy was the
direction to take with the business. There was a clear
opportunity to service a niche market and produce 100%
Canadian goat dairy products. That year, Happy Days
Dairies opened for business with a herd of 70 goats,
a mobile processing plant, and approval from the BC
Government to sell Happy Days goat dairy products
in BC.
FARM OPERATIONS
• Happy Days Dairies maintains two processing plants
and has 12 dairy farmers under contract in BC. Both
processing plants are located nearby the family
farms ensuring all fresh goat milk is processed
immediately. Plant locations include: Salmon Arm,
BC (processing and Head office) and Chilliwack,
BC (processing and retail store).
• Each one of their dairy farmers is committed to
treating their animals humanely with access to clean
bedding, dry and warm shelter, open air barns,
access to the outdoors, pastures, fresh clean air,
high quality nutritious and natural food, clean and
fresh water. They encourage their goats and cows
to engage in their natural behavior by placing them
in social groups where they can live in a herd to run
and play. They care deeply about cows and goats
and you can tell with the quality of their products.
FARM MARKETS
• Okanagan Goat Cheese
• Goat Crumble
• Goat Feta
SUSTAINABILITY
• Process milk where it is produced, trying to
be as efficient as possible for shipping
• Spraying excess whey onto fields as fertilizer
• Minimizing packaging input
• Recycling
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• CFIA & FDA Compliant
FROM FARM TO FORK |
FARM MISSION
21
LITTLE QUALICUM CHEESEWORKS
403 LOWRY’S ROAD, PARKSVILLE, BC
The Gourlay Family • Clarke & Nancy
FARM MISSION
“To lovingly hand-craft high quality cheeses using 100%
of the milk from their own grass-fed, SPCA Certified
dairy cows, because happy cows make the best cheese!”
ESTABLISHED
Nancy Gourlay started hand-crafting cheeses for
Little Qualicum Cheese Works on their heritage dairy
farm in 2001.
FARM OPERATIONS
• Using only the milk from their own herd of grassfed diary cows, they create high quality cheeses
that are ethical and sustainable - making them BC
consumer’s #1 local cheese choice.
FARM MARKETS
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• Variety of gourmet locally produced artisan cheeses
including: blue, brie, fromage frais in multiple
flavors, gouda, raclette, Rathtrevor gruyere, and
multiple flavors of jill - their softer version of jack.
22
SUSTAINABILITY
• Their farm and cheeses are Salmon Safe certified,
ensuring good stewardship of the land and water
we share.
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• SPCA certified and Salmon Safe certified
cheeses. The first cheese company in
BC to have these certifications
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• Voted #1 by consumers in the
WE HEART LOCAL BC awards
MOONSTRUCK ORGANIC CHEESE INC.
1306 BEDDIS ROAD, SALTSPRING ISLAND, BC
Julia & Susan Grace
“Charming Jersey cows produce delicious organic milk,
transformed into fine artisanal cheeses.”
ESTABLISHED
Their farm was settled by the Beddis family in the 1890’s
(their famous Beddis Blue Cheese is named in their
honour). Long abandoned, they re-established the farm
in the early 90”s and went on to establish the dairy
and cheese plant in 1998. They were the first organic
dairy and cheese making plant to be licensed in
British Columbia.
FARM OPERATIONS
• They practice organic management of all aspects
of the operation. Their cows thrive on organic feed,
open grazing and constant access to one another
and the out of doors. Their products are free of
chemicals, drugs, and GMO’s. Their cheese making
emphasizes simple, old fashioned methods, which
shows in the flavour and texture of their cheeses.
FARM MARKETS
• They specialize in aged raw milk organic cheeses
such as Beddis Blue and White Grace.
SUSTAINABILITY
• Manure and whey composting
• Rotational grazing
• Hedgerow and woodlot promtion
to support birds and wildlife
• No chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Silver medal for their Ash-Ripened Camembert
and a bronze for our Baby Blue at the first
World Jersey Cheese Competition.
• Food network Canada named Blossoms
Blue one of the top ten foods in Canada.
• McLeans Magazine declared their
cheese ‘sin on a cracker.’
FROM FARM TO FORK |
FARM MISSION
23
NATURAL PASTURES CHEESE COMPANY
635 MCPHEE AVENUE, COURTENAY, BC
Edgar, Philip & Doug Smith • 3 Brothers & Their Families
FARM MISSION
“To make luscious artisan cheeses, all hand-made under
the guidance of their Swiss Master Cheesemaker.”
• Soft Cheese
• Aged Cheese
• Fresh Cheese
• Water Buffalo Cheese
ESTABLISHED
• Semi-firm, Semi-soft
• Verdelait Cheese
In 2001, the Smith brothers their family’s 3rd Heritage
Dairy Farm came to a crossroads determined to preserve
their values and to diversify their offerings, they founded
Natural Pastures Cheese Company.
One year later, their small, artisan cheese company was
joined by Swiss Master Cheesemaker, Paul Sutter. All of their
traditional and inspired cheeses are handcrafted with the
fresh, wholesome milk of Island cows and water buffalo.
FARM OPERATIONS
• Manure and whey composting, rotational grazing,
hedgerow and woodlot promtion to support birds
and wildlife, no chemical fertilizers or pesticides.
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Natural systems approach
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• Comox Valley Tourism’s annual Land of Plenty
Award, April 2006
• Natural product – no food colour or preservatives
• Canada Habitat Award 2003
• Supports Eat BC and BC Chef’s Association
• Comox Valley Economic Development Society,
Certificate of Recognition and Achievement 2003
Local suppliers include:
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
SUSTAINABILITY
• Milk free of herbicides, pesticides and
genetically modified organisms
• Supplies Gordon Food Service with a variety of
natural cheeses
24
FARM MARKETS
• Darryl and Anthea Archer of the multigenerational Fairburn Farm, Cowichan Valley
• Gerry, Val and Sandra McClintock’s farmstead
in Dove Creek, Comox Valley
• Russell, Jennifer and Edward Dyson,
Coleman Meadows Farm
• Entrepreneur of the Year Award at the Vancouver
Island Business Excellence Awards 2002
• Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce
New Business of the Year 2002
OLYMPIC DAIRY
7178 VANTAGE WAY, DELTA, BC
OLYMPIC VISION
“To become a National iconic brand proudly from BC.”
ESTABLISHED
After working for more than twenty years in the bakery
industry, Tim Ormiston was ready for a new challenge.
He was searching for a business that would not only
better reflect his personal values, but which could
also someday be a legacy for his family. Tim and his
wife Alisen found a small dairy manufacturing plant in
Richmond. When they purchased Olympic Dairy in 1989,
it was producing three lines of natural yogurt. Over the
last thirteen years the family-run dairy has grown 900%.
They now offer more than 50 products including all
natural dairy yogurt and a full line of certified organic
products such as yogurt, cream cheese, sour cream, milk
and kefir.
FARM OPERATIONS
• Fresh milk daily
FARM MARKETS
• Dairy products and yogurts manufactured
with 100% natural ingredients
• Entirely free of gelatin, man-made preservatives,
chemicals and fillings
• Balkan-style yogurt is distinguished by its firm and
creamy texture
SUSTAINABILITY
• Recycling programs in place
• Light on sensors in the cooler
• Water heating systems in a closed loop
to conserve energy
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Fraser Valley Organic Producers
Association (FVOPA)
• Straight from local farms to our Delta plant
• Turn milk into yogurt within 48 hours
Local suppliers include:
FROM FARM TO FORK |
• Agropur and Agrifoods co-ops
25
SALT SPRING ISLAND CHEESE COMPANY
285 REYNOLDS ROAD, SALT SPRING ISLAND, BC
The Wood Family
FARM MISSION
“To make sheep and goat cheeses for those who seek
high quality cheese and a distinctive presentation for
celebrations and special occasions.”
Established
Nancy and David Wood moved from Toronto to Salt
Spring in 1990, and over a period of 6 years, learned
how to look after and milk dairy sheep and make cheese.
They sold their first cheese in July 1996, and soon
expanded into goat cheeses, which is now over 90%
of their production. Now 20 years later, the Salt Spring
Cheese Company has a staff of 30, and all of their milk
comes from other local farms.
FARM OPERATIONS
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• They rely on local sheep and goat farms with whom
they have long-term relationships to provide all
of their milk. These farms are specialists in animal
husbandry, which allows them to specialize in
making the cheese.
26
FARM MARKETS
• High quality goat cheese, both fresh cheeses
(chèvre) and Camembert-style ripened cheeses.
SUSTAINABILITY
• Back-haul their whey to farms as pig feed
• Recycling
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
• Guilde des Fromagers in France
• Sierra Club Supporters
• Salt Spring Conservancy
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• Salt Spring Business of the year in 2014
• Salt Spring Business Ambassador
VANDERPOL’S EGGS LTD.
3911 MT. LEHMAN ROAD, ABBOTSFORD, BC
Mike Vanderpol • President
FARM MISSION
MEMBERS AND CERTIFICATIONS
“To deliver high quality food at a fair price, with the
core values of integrity, drive, focus, service, respect,
teamwork and FUN.”
• SQF Level 2
ESTABLISHED
• Halal
Willem Vanderpol Sr. immigrated from The Netherlands
and began selling eggs door to door in greater
Vancouver - his vision was to provide the highest
quality products and to serve clients. Surrounded
by a dedicated staff who shared the same vision,
this “extended family” was instrumental in making
Vanderpol’s Eggs the largest egg processor in
Western Canada.
• Organic
FARM MARKETS
• On Site ISO Certified
• Kosher
• HACCP Certified
AWARDS AND DESIGNATIONS
• OSSE Safety Award
• BC Food Processor Hall of Fame
• ITA Apprentice Training Program
• Abbotsoford Community Services
• Pasteurized and homogenized whole egg, egg
white and egg yolk.
SUSTAINABILITY
• Fully implemented Pest control Program
FROM FARM TO FORK |
• Complete recycling program including water
and egg shell
27
THE VILLAGE CHEESE COMPANY
3475 SMITH DRIVE, ARMSTRONG, BC
FARM MISSION
“To take great pride in making artisan cheese, made
from local whole milk from the Okanagan Valley and
natural ingredients only.”
ESTABLISHED
The Village Cheese Company is a small family owned
business. It was founded in 1998 by Dwight and Linda
Johnson after Armstrong Cheese was sold to Saputo
and its cheese plant shut down. Wanting to keep quality
traditional cheese making in Armstrong alive, Dwight
and Linda created Village Cheese with Hubert Besner
and Ivan Matte, some of Canada’s best cheese makers.
Hubert and Ivan worked for the Armstrong cheese prior
to it being sold to Saputo; and with Hubert’s extensive
knowledge and experience he has been the main
designer of the cheese plant.
FARMER OPERATIONS
• Whole Okanagan milk transported
from their partner farms
• Pasteurization to packaging is all done at the plant
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
• Handcrafted cheeses from old fashioned methods
and traditional recipes unique to the company
28
• Objectives to make cheeses that
tribute handcraft and tradition
• Norman Besner (Hubert’s son) is the head cheese
maker while Hubert is now the cheese grader
FARM MARKETS
• Federally licensed Fresh Cheddar
Squeakerz (cheddar cheese curds)
• Flavoured or traditional cheeses
• Certified organic cheeses
SUSTAINABILITY
• Natural bio-sustainable production and only use
natural ingredients
• Packaging is done at the cheese plant and labels
are put on manually
SEASONAL CHARTS
As part of the Gordon® Food Service Best of BC
philosophy, we are committed to buying fresh, local
products when available.
When there are gaps in the BC season, we continue to
support our BC vendors by giving them the opportunity
to source supplementary product to pack and distribute
through the down season.
BC DAIRY AVAILABILITY
BC DAIRY AVAILABILITY
YEAR
YEAR
ROUND
ROUND
Butter
Cheese, Buffalo
Butter
Cheese, Cow
Cheese, Buffalo
Cheese, Goat
Cheese, Cow
Eggs
Cheese, Goat
Milk
Eggs
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Milk
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
SEASONAL
SEASONAL
YEAR
YEAR
ROUND
ROUND
BC FLORAL SEASONAL AVAILABILITY
BC FLORAL SEASONAL AVAILABILITY
30
Alstroemeria
Chrysantemum, Potted
Alstroemeria
Chrysanthemum, Spray
Chrysantemum, Potted
Freesia
Chrysanthemum, Spray
Gerbera
Freesia
Lily, Calla
Gerbera
Lily, Easter
Lily, Calla
Lily, Oriental
Lily, Easter
Peony
Lily, Oriental
Rose, Potted
Peony
Snapdragon
Rose, Potted
Sunflower
Snapdragon
Poinsettia
Sunflower
Treeboughs
Poinsettia
Tulip
Treeboughs
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Note:
These are popular flower varieties currently listed with Gordon Food Service.
Tulip
Other varieties of BC Grown Flowers are available up on request.
Note: These are popular flower varieties currently listed with Gordon Food Service.
Other varieties of BC Grown Flowers are available up on request.
BC GROWN PRODUCE AVAILABILITY
PEAK SEASON|STORAGE CROP|YEAR ROUND
J
Apricots
F
M
A
PEAK SEASON
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Blackberries
Blueberries
Cherries
FRUIT
Crabapples
Cranberries
Currants
Gooseberries
Grape, Concord
Peaches
Pears, Bartlett
Plums, Italian
Nectarines
Quince
Raspberries
Saskatoon Berries
Strawberries, Field
Artichokes
Asparagus
Baby Vegetables
Beans, Fava
Beans, Green/Yellow
Broccoli
Brussel Sprouts
Carrots
Cauliflower
Celery
Chinese Vegetables
Corn
Cucumbers, Field
Cucumbers, Hothouse
Kale
Kohlrabi
Leeks
Lettuce, Baby/Iceburg/Leaf/Romaine
Onions, Green
Peas, English
Peas, Snap/Snow
Peppers, Hot House
Pumpkin
Radishes
Rhubarb
Spinach
Tomatoes
Zucchini, Green/Yellow
Continues...
FROM FARM TO FORK |
VEGETABLES
Chard, Red/Green/Rainbow
31
BC GROWN PRODUCE AVAILABILITY
PEAK SEASON|STORAGE CROP|YEAR ROUND
J
F
M
A
PEAK SEASON
M
Edible Flowers
Fiddleheads
Herbs
SPECIALTY
Mushrooms Wild, Cauliflower
Mushrooms Wild, Chantrelle
Mushrooms Wild, Chicken of the Woods
Mushrooms Wild, Hedgehog
Mushrooms Wild, Lobster
Mushrooms Wild, Morels
Mushrooms Wild, Pine (Matsutaki)
Mushrooms Wild, Yellow Foot
Ramps
Sea Asparagus
Sunchokes
Tomato, Heirloom
STORAGE CROP
Apples
Beet, Gold/Red
VEGETABLES & FRUIT
Beet, Candy Cane
Cabbage, Green/Red/Savoy
Carrots
Pears
Parsnips
Potato, Kennebec
Potato, Klondike Rose
Potato, Mini White
Potato, Red (Medium/Mini)
Potato, Russet (Large)
Potato, Yukon Gold (L/M/Mini)
Rutabagas
Squash, Kabocha/Winter
Squash, Banana/Butternut
Squash, Spaghetti/Acorn
Turnip, White
YEAR ROUND
Endive, Belgian Red/Yellow
Lettuces, Butter/Specialty
GORDON FOOD SERVICE
Mushrooms
32
Pea Shoots, Green/Yellow
Sprouts, Alfalfa/Bean/Specialty
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
BC PROTEIN SEASONAL AVAILABILITY
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
LAND RAISED
Beef
Pork
Chicken
Duck
Lamb
YEAR ROUND
Turkey
Caviar, Salmon
Caviar, Sturgeon
Cod, Pacific
Mussels
Oysters
Rockfish
Sablefish (Black Cod)
Salmon, Atlantic (BC Farmed)
Salmon, Steelhead (BC Farmed)
Scallops
Sole, Pacific
Sturgeon, Farmed
SEAFOOD
Trout
Clams, Geoduck
Clams, Manilla
Crab, Dungeness
Halibut
Lingcod
Octopus
Prawns, Spot
Salmon, Spring
Salmon-Chum
Salmon, Coho (Northern)
Salmon, Sockeye
Sardines, Pacific
Sea Urchin, Roe
Shrimp, Sidestripe
Tuna, Albacore
Note: Frozen BC Protein Is Available Year Round.
FROM FARM TO FORK |
SEASONAL
Herring
33
c
. bu
Ed.
ocal.
5th
el
FR O
e at lo
al
K
OR
M
FARM TO F
.
y local
b
FROM FARM TO FORK
5TH EDITION